Political Quotes

“Mr. Chair, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1941, the Coastal and Marine Economies Protection Act. Mr. Chair, the administration's proposed 5-year plan for expanded oil and gas leasing would pose significant danger to our Nation's coastal waters which are home to thousands of plant and animal species that rely on a well-balanced marine ecosystem. According to Oceana, oil and gas exploration could have untold effects on fish and marine wildlife, from decreasing fish catches, to increase stranding or beaching of marine mammals. On top of this, our oceans are an enormous driver of our States' economies. In my home State of Rhode Island, ocean industries such as fishing, tourism, and recreation account for nearly $2 billion in annual economic activity and support more than 41,000 jobs. Throughout New England, it accounts for more than $17 billion annually. Our States cannot afford to risk the dangers posed to our oceans and coasts by the administration's misguided proposal to expand oil and gas drilling in the Atlantic. We cannot afford to sit by and watch the President plunder our oceans for the benefit of the big oil companies at the expense of polluting our oceans, endangering fishing and tourism industries, and harming coastal communities.…”