On the recordJune 22, 2011
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Let us not be bamboozled by this argument that my friend on the other side is trying to perpetuate on the American people. There is one problem with this bill--well, there are actually two problems with this bill. One problem is that it gives the EPA and State permitting authorities just 6 months, 6 lousy months, to finalize an air permit for offshore exploratory drilling, which is not enough time to perform an adequate technical review while allowing for adequate public participation. Number two, it preempts State authority. It preempts the right of the State of California, the State of Delaware, and other States with designated authority to impose more stringent emission controls on vessels servicing an offshore drilling operation. Mr. Chair, this amendment attempts to cure a very serious problem with this bill. With that, I yield back the balance of my time.
