Louisiana leaders want Gulf drilling to resume

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In summary, Louisiana politicians are angry at BP for the Gulf of Mexico spill, but are also pleading with Washington to bring back offshore drilling due to the state's heavy reliance on the oil-and-gas industry. They argue that the temporary ban on drilling is causing harm to the economy and jobs, and that deep drilling is safe overall. However, the ban only applies to deep drilling operations and existing deep wells can still operate. A bill has been passed unanimously asking for the moratorium to be shortened.
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NEW ORLEANS – At the same time they are venting their fury on BP over the Gulf of Mexico spill and its calamitous environmental effects, Louisiana politicians are rushing to the defense of the oil-and-gas industry and pleading with Washington to bring back offshore drilling — now.

As angry as they are over the disaster, state officials warn that the Obama administration's temporary ban on drilling in the Gulf has sent Louisiana's most lucrative industry into a death spiral.

They contend that drilling is safe overall and that the moratorium is a knee-jerk reaction, akin to grounding every airplane in America because of a single crash. They worry, too, that the moratorium comes at a time when another major Louisiana industry — fishing — has been brought to a standstill by the mess in the Gulf.

"Mr. President, you were looking for someone's butt to kick. You're kicking ours," Lafourche Parish President Charlotte Randolph said in pleading for the moratorium to end.

The oil-and-gas industry is the backbone of the Louisiana economy, bringing in billions of dollars in revenue

Louisiana lawmakers have railed against the moratorium, saying it could put more than 100,000 people out of work, shutter businesses and destroy livelihoods. A bill asking the administration to shorten the moratorium passed the Legislature unanimously.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100610/ap_on_bi_ge/us_gulf_oil_spill
 
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The entire industry isn't at risk. The ban only applies to deep drilling operations. And existing deep wells are still allowed to operate.

People haven't even begun to get their heads around this yet. Just wait.
 

1. What is the current status of Gulf drilling in Louisiana?

As of now, Gulf drilling in Louisiana is at a standstill due to a temporary ban on new offshore drilling leases and a moratorium on deepwater drilling in the Gulf of Mexico.

2. Why do Louisiana leaders want Gulf drilling to resume?

Louisiana leaders want Gulf drilling to resume because the oil and gas industry is a major economic driver for the state, providing jobs and revenue. They also believe that responsible drilling can be done safely and without harm to the environment.

3. What are the potential risks of resuming Gulf drilling?

The potential risks of resuming Gulf drilling include environmental damage, such as oil spills and pollution, and safety hazards for workers. There is also concern about the long-term impact on marine life and ecosystems in the Gulf of Mexico.

4. What measures are being taken to ensure safe and responsible drilling in the Gulf?

Louisiana leaders have proposed strict regulations and safety protocols for offshore drilling in the Gulf, including regular inspections and emergency response plans. They are also advocating for advanced technology and equipment to prevent and contain potential spills.

5. What is the public opinion on resuming Gulf drilling in Louisiana?

The public opinion on resuming Gulf drilling in Louisiana is divided. Some residents and environmental groups are concerned about the potential risks and advocate for alternative energy sources. Others support the oil and gas industry and believe it is vital for the state's economy.

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