Louisiana Senate Bill SCR125

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/16/10
• Passed: 6/16/10
• Engrossed: 6/16/10

Caption

Directs British Petroleum to hire Louisiana residents and businesses to assist in the cleanup efforts related to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, and to expedite consideration of all alternative methods of cleanup, as well as procedures to slow or stop the leak.

Impact

The immediate impact of SCR125 is a directed effort to include local labor in the cleanup process of the Gulf Coast region. By applying pressure on BP to employ Louisiana residents, the resolution not only addresses the urgent need for effective environmental restoration but also aims to provide economic relief to locals impacted by the spill. The bill emphasizes the necessity of utilizing regional knowledge and expertise, which could lead to faster and more effective cleanup efforts, subsequently impacting the health of local ecosystems and fisheries vital to the state's economy.

Summary

SCR125 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution which directs British Petroleum (BP) to hire Louisiana residents and businesses to assist with cleanup efforts in response to the catastrophic Deepwater Horizon oil spill. This bill aims to ensure that local residents, who possess vital knowledge about the unique Louisiana coastline and its needs, are prioritized in the cleanup operations. Given the extensive environmental damage caused by the spill, this legislative action represents a regional effort to mitigate the ongoing crisis and support local employment in the aftermath of significant job losses in oil-related and seafood industries due to the disaster.

Sentiment

Sentiment around SCR125 is largely supportive within the Louisiana legislative environment, as it reflects a communal response to a significant crisis affecting the state's coastline. There is a recognition of the need for local involvement in cleanup efforts due to the spill's effects on both the environment and the economy. However, some critique may arise regarding the adequacy of the measures imposed on BP to ensure compliance, as well as debates on the broader accountability of the corporation for the disaster, suggesting an underlying tension between corporate responsibility and local governance.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SCR125 include the adequacy of the cleanup efforts and BP's responsibility to not only hire locals but to address the long-term ramifications of the oil spill simultaneously. There is concern regarding whether the resolution will lead to substantial actions on BP's part or remain a symbolic gesture. Additionally, discussions may surface about the effectiveness of utilizing local workers versus specialized cleanup teams, creating a conversation about the balance between community involvement and expertise in handling an environmental crisis of this magnitude.