Requests DEQ to investigate the governor of Louisiana's refusal to timely declare a state of emergency in response to the Deepwater Horizon oil rig
Impact
If enacted, the resolution could significantly affect state laws relating to emergency management and environmental oversight. By prompting an investigation into the governor's actions, it stresses the need for accountability and responsiveness in the face of emergencies. The findings could influence future legislative discussions on disaster preparedness and the necessity of timely response to environmentalhazards. Furthermore, the resolution may pave the way for establishing clearer protocols for declaring emergencies to protect Louisiana's natural resources and coastal communities.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution No. 143 (HCR143) seeks to urge and request the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality to investigate the governor's delay in declaring a state of emergency following the catastrophic Deepwater Horizon oil spill. This resolution highlights the urgency of responding to natural disasters and the legal authority granted to the governor under the Louisiana Homeland Security and Emergency Assistance and Disaster Act. The bill addresses public safety and environmental protection in the wake of a major ecological crisis.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR143 appears to be one of concern and urgency, particularly with the ongoing environmental threats posed by the oil spill. Proponents of the resolution likely believe that a thorough investigation will lead to improved policies and preparedness for similar disasters in the future. Conversely, any potential criticism of the governor’s inaction might spark political contention based on party lines, reflecting broader discussions about management and responsiveness during a crisis.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the implications of the governor's delayed action and whether it represents a substantial failure of leadership during a critical time. The investigation urged by HCR143 could lead to debates about the adequacy of current disaster management laws and the extent of the governor's authority in emergencies. This resolution serves not only to address the immediate aftermath of the Deepwater Horizon incident but also as a reflection on the governance structures in place for handling environmental disasters.
Memorializes congress to direct EPA to investigate the governor of La.'s refusal to timely declare a state of emergency in response to the Deepwater Horizon oil rig
Requests the U. S. President to issue an emergency declaration to use any and all U.S. resources, including military forces and martial law, to stop the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, and to ban the use of certain chemical dispersants in the Deepwater Horizon oil spill response operation.
Requests all relevant state and federal agencies to devote all available resources to stop the flow of oil at the former site of the Deepwater Horizon rig.
Directs local, state, and federal governmental agencies to work in close coordination, in order to minimize damage to Louisiana's natural resources caused by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, and to utilize all available resources to protect and support Louisiana residents and businesses affected by the spill.
Requests the attorney general to file suit against BP to compensate the parish governments of the coastal parishes for the loss of property taxes due to the Deepwater Horizon explosion and oil leak.
Urges and requests the Dept. of Health and Hospitals to investigate any health conditions suffered by responders to the Transocean Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion and provide direction for the long-term health care of these individuals
Requests that the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission consider allowing for the use of cast nets at night with no creel limits for the commercial taking of shrimp during this time of fishing disaster resultant from the BP Deepwater Horizon catastrophe
Requests the Dept. of Homeland Security to direct the U.S. Coast Guard to implement all cleanup methods prior to the conclusion of an emergency or active response