Buchanan Urges BP Fund Administrator To Cover Claims From His Constituents

Press Release

Feinberg Pledges To Consider Covering Claims From Indirectly Impacted Businesses.

Congressman Vern Buchanan (FL-13) today urged the newly appointed administrator of the $20 billion BP Compensation Fund, Ken Feinberg, to cover claims from his constituents for losses associated with the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

"Tourism plays a critical role in the economy of Florida's 13th Congressional district," said Buchanan. "Our small businesses that rely on out-of-state tourists are feeling the impact of the oil spill even though our beaches have not yet been hit with tar balls."

Buchanan noted that business is down an estimated 50 percent in areas indirectly impacted by the oil spill and asked if their claims would be approved. "We have to get to that answer fairly quickly," said Buchanan.

"You're absolutely right, they are suffering," said Feinberg, who accepted an invitation from Buchanan to visit the region and said he would have an answer within the next "few weeks -- not months" on whether businesses in areas not directly impacted by the spill or would be eligible for money from the BP fund.

"You raise an absolutely legitimate, real question, which we have to address promptly," said Feinberg.

Buchanan questioned Feinberg about the proposed claims process and what it will mean for affected small businesses in Florida's 13th Congressional district during a U.S. House Small Business Committee hearing entitled "Recovery in the Gulf: What the $20 billion BP Claims Fund Means for Small Business."

The second-term lawmaker is the only Florida Member of Congress who serves on the House Small Business Committee.

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