New Gulf Drilling Legislation Filed in U.S. Senate
Jul 28, 2009
Two Senators from oil producing states introduced a bill yesterday that would allow new drilling for oil and natural gas within 45 miles of Florida's coastline. Senators Mary Landrieu (D-Louisiana) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) offered the proposal, which is very similar to an amendment added to the energy bill earlier this summer. Passage of either of these bills would void a compromise reached three years ago to protect Florida's coasts until 2022.
The oil and natural gas industries are pushing this effort on both the state and federal levels. Despite strong opposition from Floridians concerned about the impact on the state's vital tourist economy and natural resources, drilling proponents are getting more support from elected officials than ever before.
Use the resources below to learn more and take action. If you don't receive CIVIC's emails, be sure to sign up in the box on the right. We'll make sure you're informed on this issue and how you can most effectively take action.
Take Action
Tell Your Federal Representatives Your Views on Gulf Drilling
Pending federal legislation would allow new drilling off Florida's beaches. Tell your Senators and Representative your thoughts on this important economic and environmental issue. More
Ask Florida's Delegation to Stand Together Against New Drilling
Two bills are moving through the U.S. Senate with provisions to open up drilling off Florida's beaches. Sen. Bill Nelson has vowed to fight the effort. If you don't want to see new rigs off our coast, sign this letter urging the rest of Florida's delegation to stand strong against new drilling. More
Ask Your Friends to Take Action on Push for Drilling in the Gulf
Ask your friends to join you in taking action on the push for new drilling off Florida's coasts. More
Learn More
Miami Herald: Supporters of drilling eye area off Florida's Gulf coast
Two senators from oil-producing states have introduced legislation that would bring oil drilling to within 45 miles of Florida's Gulf coast. More
Yet Another Push for More Drilling Off Florida's Coasts
Read this CIVIC article for more details on the federal legislation and its pros and cons. More
Florida Newspapers Are Weighing in Strongly Against New Drilling
Newspaper editorial boards from Pensacola to Miami are weighing in against allowing new drilling near Florida's coasts. They decry the danger to Florida's vital tourism industry and environment, as well as the shortsightedness and ineffectiveness of new drilling as an energy strategy. More