Louisiana House Bill HCR185

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/29/12
• Engrossed: 5/29/12
• Passed: 5/31/12

Caption

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

Impact

The resolution seeks to ensure that the USCG does not prematurely conclude active cleanup efforts before comprehensive methods have been applied to manage residual oil and debris. It calls for a coordinated response that recognizes the unique environmental conditions and challenges faced by Louisiana's coastlines, which play a crucial role in supporting wildlife, fisheries, and tourism. By requesting a more thorough and sustained engagement in cleanup processes, HCR185 aims to safeguard the natural resources and economic vitality of coastal Louisiana, identified as a national treasure and an economic engine.

Summary

HCR185, a House Concurrent Resolution, is a legislative request from the Louisiana Legislature urging the Department of Homeland Security to direct the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) to enhance cleanup operations related to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The resolution emphasizes the necessity for the USCG to continue all effective containment and cleanup strategies and to engage in meaningful collaboration with the state of Louisiana and its coastal parishes, ensuring that the cleanup efforts reflect the current conditions in the affected areas. This resolution highlights the ongoing environmental impacts that the Gulf of Mexico's oil spill has caused, stressing its significant implications for both the local ecosystem and the economy dependent on it.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HCR185 reflects a heightened concern for environmental protection and public safety in Louisiana's coastal regions. Lawmakers express frustration over the perceived inadequacy of previous response efforts by the USCG, highlighting the need for robust and ongoing actions to address the lingering effects of the oil spill. Supporters of the resolution argue that it amplifies the voices of local communities who possess critical knowledge about their environment, advocating for their involvement in decision-making processes impacting their shoreline. Overall, there is a strong focus on accountability and community engagement in order to protect marine ecosystems and local economies.

Contention

Some points of contention involve the adequacy and efficiency of USCG's cleanup strategies and their engagement level with local authorities. Critics of the current cleanup efforts argue that the USCG has not fully embraced local insights or acted decisively enough in dealing with hazards posed by orphaned boom anchors and submerged oil. Additionally, there are concerns that some cleanup methods utilized may be insufficient in addressing the long-term environmental consequences of the spill. HCR185 aims to address these issues by insisting that the USCG not only maintain ongoing active response operations but also emphasize a collaborative approach that includes input from local stakeholders.