On the recordJuly 22, 2010
as I rise today to join Senator Whitehouse in introducing the National Endowment for the Oceans Act, our Nation continues to bear the brunt of what has now become the biggest offshore oil spill in recorded history. Since April 20, 2010, when the mobile offshore drilling unit Deepwater Horizon exploded and sank 50 miles off the coast of Louisiana, claiming the lives of 11 men, as much as 180 million gallons of oil has spewed into the Gulf of Mexico. The ecosystem, environment, and the culture of the Gulf coast region will feel the effects of this spill for decades to come in the aftermath of an event that has focused National attention on one of our most productive, beautiful, and beloved resources: our oceans and coasts. I also want to acknowledge the support of the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Senator Rockefeller for his cosponsorship of this initiative. As Ranking Member on the Commerce Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard, and as a Senator from a state which relies heavily on our marine and coastal resources, I have long appreciated the tremendous value of America's oceans, coasts, and Great Lakes. Throughout my time in this body I have pursued policies that would enhance our stewardship of these treasured regions, and permit sustainable use of the bounty they provide. This legislation would ensure a brighter future for these areas that heal our souls and drive our economy.
