Pipeline group delivers signatures for ballot initiative

ANCHORAGE (AP) -- Backers of an all-Alaska pipeline to carry North Slope natural gas to market have turned in more than 42,000 signatures for a November ballot initiative.

Supporters from Citizens Initiative for the All-Alaska Gasline hauled the signatures in a Loomis armored van to the state Division of Elections office in Anchorage Friday.

The initiative would create a new state agency, called the Alaska Natural Gas Development Authority. The agency's purpose would be to acquire natural gas and build a pipeline to Valdez.

Supporters favor an in-state line, with spurs to serve Alaska towns, rather than one through Canada, according to group chairman Scott Heyworth.

To put the initiative on the ballot, election officials must first verify that at least 28,783 signatures came from registered voters.