The BP drilling disaster has severely impacted the jobs, lives and futures of millions of Gulf Coast residents. No one knows what the long-lasting impacts of oil and dispersants will be on the seafood and wildlife of the Gulf region. The Gulf provides 86 percent of the U.S. shrimp harvest and 56 percent of the U.S. oyster harvest. We need to ensure that health of the Gulf of Mexico is a top priority in Washington's policies.
BP is not alone when it comes to taking big risks at the expense of the Gulf. Other oil and gas companies have violated safety and environmental rules in the past. Now that Congress is back in session, it is time to push for reforms like the creation of a local citizen's advisory council that gives Gulf citizens a chance to make sure the oil industry doesn't repeat mistakes like the BP drilling disaster.
Additionally, Clean Water Act fines must be directed to the Gulf to ensure that the damaged marine and costal ecosystems can be made whole.