Political Quotes

“So with almost $4 billion invested in these programs and OPIC's sketchy environmental record, it is ever more important that OPIC be held accountable to the public regarding its investment in environmentally sensitive projects. The ideal legislation to correct the lack of transparency in investment fund projects would require the public disclosure of environmental impact assessments conducted on all new investment projects. It would also allow for public commentary where citizens, especially those living in the affected area of the project, could voice their opinions of the project. In the case of projects already under way, a renegotiation of contracts to allow for public disclosure would be required to avoid breach of contract concerns. In the absence of legislation like this and because of the limitations of appropriations bills, my amendment simply cuts funding for environmentally sensitive investment fund projects. If we cannot have full transparency in all investment fund projects, then OPIC should not be involved in projects that are environmentally sensitive.”