ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - A series of 18 public hearings in nine cities on Enbridge Energy’s proposal to replace its Line 3 oil pipeline has moved to the Twin Cities.

At issue is whether the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission should grant a certificate of need for replacing the 1960s-era pipeline, which carries Canadian crude from Alberta across Minnesota to Wisconsin.

Tribal and environmental groups rallied at the Capitol Thursday. Minnesota Public Radio News reports about 200 people attended an afternoon hearing, and more were expected at an evening round.

The Commerce Department says Enbridge has failed to establish the need for the project.

But Enbridge says Line 3 is a critical piece of its network. Supporters turned out heavily at Tuesday’s first hearing in Thief River Falls.

The PUC plans to decide in April.

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