Do you acknowledge that this coastal area operates some of the main ports in the United States?

the only money I'm aware of is the $7 million in the Corps of Engineer budget. Seven million. Our master plan calls for $50 billion over 50 years.

I'm disappointed in your lack of support for this bill.

Coastal States got nothing. Truman offered us 37.5 percent.

I just want to clarify something for the record.

I don't think $100 million a year is going to do it. Do you?

Where would we get long term money if not from revenue sharing? Where will that come from?

With a $500 million cap split 4 ways where the interior States have no cap. We have a $500 million cap split 4 ways. So that would basically generate a maximum of $100 million a year.

But if the law is wrong you wouldn't recommend it be corrected?

sometimes is it important to spend a little bit on the money on the front end to save a lot on the back end

We’re not starting with a clean slate.

I think they would be shocked to hear you represent their interests that they are not entitled to share in the revenues.

No part of the United States--indeed, no part of the developed world--has suffered as much environmental damage because of the extraction of natural resources as Louisiana.

I would describe it more than just opposition and disinterest. I think it's tragic.

Yet, offshore production has generated $211 billion for the Federal government, yet only $29 million has been shared with the four Gulf States that host that production.

I think the States should be able to decide and determine the definition of alternative and renewable energy.

I support the FAIR act. And so should any fair-minded person.

It's $30 billion that the Western States have maintained.

The energy industry is responsible for a significant share of the destruction of coastal Louisiana.

It is long past time that we make coastal states the equals of inshore energy producing states by fixing the way that our revenues are distributed.

I want to highlight the GOMESA Act that I was proud to be the lead sponsor with Senator Domenici.

Currently, under the Mineral Leasing Act, states receive 50% of the revenues generated from coal, oil and natural gas development.

I believe the constitutional dedication of our federal revenue sharing helped pave the way for Congress to pass GOMESA in late 2006.

It is only fair then that oil revenues be used to protect Louisiana's land and people.

This whole entire river functions as an economic lifeblood for the entire Nation, not just the 4.5 million people that live here.