[StBernard] LRA Chairman Norman C. Francis' Statement on Senate Vote to Approve S.3711

[Westley Annis]

LRA Chairman Norman C. Francis' Statement on Senate's Vote to Approve Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006 (S. 3711)


Bill Now Moves to Conference with U.S. House of Representatives


BATON ROUGE, La. -- LRA Chairman Norman C. Francis issued the following statement today on the U.S. Senate's vote to approve Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006:


"We are pleased the Senate has voted to open new areas of the Gulf of Mexico for oil and gas production, with coastal energy-producing states, including Louisiana, sharing in a portion of the revenues."

"This new source of revenue will be crucial to our investment in flood control and coastal wetlands restoration, which will protect land based infrastructure before, during and after hurricanes, as well as the people living in neighboring coastal communities."

"Repairing this 'hurricane buffer zone' is an essential piece of our commitment to rebuild a safer, stronger, smarter Louisiana. Without it, future hurricanes will strengthen rather than weaken as they approach New Orleans. With a restored coastline, storm surges will slow thereby protecting coastal communities."

"It's equally important to note that one-third of all oil and gas consumed in this country comes across Louisiana's coastal wetlands. Protecting the infrastructure that makes this possible will ultimately save money for consumers across the United States."

"Unfortunately, we have seen how hurricanes can disrupt Louisiana's oil and gas production and distribution system thereby increasing gasoline prices nationwide. If Congress provides us with resources to rebuild and protect America's wetlands and our oil and gas infrastructure, they will be helping all Americans by minimizing the impact of future hurricanes on their fuel bills."

"We look forward to working with the White House, Senators and Representatives as the bill moves to conference committee. Yes, a compromise on this important piece of legislation is a critical piece of Louisiana's recovery process. But we also believe it stands to play an unparalleled role in the nation's overall prosperity."


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