Washington D.C. – Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA), Chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus, released the following statement after President Obama addressed the nation from the Oval Office about the response to the BP oil spill:
“Last night, President Obama reaffirmed his commitment to hold BP accountable for the oil spill, which has wreaked widespread environmental and economic carnage in the Gulf Coast region.
“While the full-scope of the damage remains to be understood, it is essential that BP pay the full costs of cleaning up this disaster and compensate the workers and small business owners in the Gulf Coast region for the economic losses that have resulted. We can and must do all that we can to help the people of the Gulf Coast region recover and rebuild.
“As tragic as the BP oil spill is, it has put the spotlight on the need to renew our efforts to implement climate change initiatives, pursue alternative energy solutions and strengthen environmental justice efforts.
“Going forward, President Obama and Congress will continue to work together to put the proper safeguards in place to prevent another catastrophe like this, while pursing a more sustainable and independent energy policy.”
Leave a Comment