Political Quotes

“Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act of 2011. This bill would enhance the research programs established in the Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia Research and Control Act of 1998 and reauthorized in 2004, which have greatly enhanced our ability to predict outbreaks of harmful algal blooms, HABs, and the extent of hypoxic zones. But knowing when outbreaks will occur is only half the battle. This bill addresses not only the mitigation and prevention of HABs and hypoxia, but also prioritizes the effective transition of research products into implementable actions that state and local governments can take to minimize adverse impacts. I am proud to continue my leadership on this important issue and I particularly want to thank my counterpart on this key piece of legislation, Senator Bill Nelson. I also want to thank the bill's additional co-sponsors, Senators Begich, Rockefeller, Whitehouse, Gillibrand and Cardin for their support. In New England blooms of Alexandrium algae, more commonly known as ``red tide'' can cause shellfish to accumulate toxins that when consumed by humans lead to paralytic shellfish poisoning, PSP, a potentially fatal neurological disorder. Therefore, when levels of Alexandrium reach dangerous levels, our fishery managers are forced to close shellfish beds that provide hundreds of jobs and add millions of dollars to our regional economy.…”