Landrieu Comments On Bill To Repeal Revenue Sharing For Coastal States

WASHINGTON – U.S. Democratic Senator Mary L. Landrieu, today made the following statement about Reps. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) and Rush Holt’s (D-N.J.) bill to repeal revenue sharing for coastal states.

Sen. Landrieu said:

"Creating a partnership with coastal states to develop offshore energy resources that this country desperately needs will bring more money to the federal treasury, not less. Secondly, all coastal states, including Massachusetts and New Jersey, should consider what contribution they can make to our country's energy needs, both onshore and offshore.

"Along the Gulf coast, we are proud of the energy we produce through oil and gas production, and, perhaps, the northeastern states can produce energy through wind, wave or other future technologies yet to be developed. I am aware that Delaware and New Hampshire are considering such wind proposals now. The impact of this production, whether it is oil and gas or wind is real and should be acknowledged.

"This recognition and partnership has been in place since 1920 for interior states like Wyoming, Utah, Colorado and New Mexico. Why should coastal states be treated any differently? Contrary to claims made by Reps. Markey and Holt, federal resources offshore will be more cooperatively developed when a portion of these new-found revenues are shared fairly with the states in question. Massachusetts was once a colony and it rightly rejected that status. Instead of fighting this effort, Rep. Markey should join coastal senators in fighting for the dignity and respect coastal states deserve and to make sure these and other states get treated fairly as this production is increased. I hope he will change his view after reconsidering the facts."