 Minnesota regulators have reaffirmed their support for Enbridge Energy's proposal to replace its aging line 3 crude oil pipeline, which will run across northern Minnesota. The Public Utilities Commission on Monday rejected a motion by opponents to reconsider its previous decision to grant a certificate of need for the project. And the commissioners agreed that Enbridge has met several additional conditions they imposed when they approved the plan in June, including requirements for insurance coverage against spills and financial assurances for covering the cost of removing the pipeline at the end of its life. Environmental and tribal groups say the project would aggravate climate change and endanger pristine waters in northern Minnesota. Dozens of their supporters walked out of the hearing in March to the office of Governor-elect Tim Walls. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.