The acting secretary of the Army has instructed federal officials to issue the easement necessary to build a controversial segment of the Dakota Access pipeline, Sen. John Hoeven Senator: Army Corps told to clear way for Dakota Access construction Republicans who oppose, support Trump refugee order Cabinet picks boost 2018 Dems MORE “The Acting Secretary of the Army Robert Speer informed us that he has directed the Army Corps of Engineers to proceed with the easement needed to complete the Dakota Access Pipeline,” Hoeven said in a Tuesday night statement. “This will enable the company to complete the project, which can and will be built with the necessary safety features to protect the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and others downstream.”