I think this is a worthwhile endeavor, and I want to commend it to the Department's attention.

I rise today in strong support of this conference report for robust sanctions against Iran. I was proud to serve with, among others of my colleagues, Senator Dodd, on the conference committee. I want to recognize the hard work he has done…

I am grateful for the opportunity to discuss legislation that I have coauthored with Senator Nelson of Florida to put a halt to cozy relationships with big oil and fundamentally reform the way we regulate big oil.

It establishes new requirements for investigation of all accidents and the public sharing of data from these reviews.

This bill clarifies the multiple responsibilities of the Department of Interior in managing the Outer Continental Shelf.

It seems to me that we need to codify reform into law.

I will look forward to the answers because, you know, we have a history of MMS allowing, for example, on inspections...

Right now, between regulators and big oil, what prohibits an inspector from signing off BP's exploratory plan today and accepting a job with BP tomorrow? Nothing.

Obviously, we are all oil industry.

You know my views on drilling, which are quite different than the majority of this committee.

I want to commend Chairman Bingaman and Senator Murkowski for introducing the bill.

It is great to know that BP can pay for its massive mess, but there are other entities that clearly could not.