Rep. Schneider Statement on Lake Michigan Oil Spill

Press Release

U.S. Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) released the following statement after reports of oil from BP's Whiting refinery in Indiana spilled into Lake Michigan.

"As one of our nation's greatest national treasures, it's critical that we are diligent in protecting our Great Lakes, including Lake Michigan. The Great Lakes are home to more than 200 species, represent a critical component of our local economy and Lake Michigan alone provides clean drinking water for more than 7 million Illinoisans.

"Events like today's oil spill reaffirm the necessity of efforts to safeguard the Great Lakes from unjustifiable environmental risk. We can never allow oil drilling in Lake Michigan, and we must oversee and help guarantee the safety of refineries, prevent the spread of invasive species and stop the flow of toxins into the Great Lakes.

"While it's promising to see initial reports that the source of the spill has been closed, I will closely monitor the cleanup efforts, look to BP to be accountable and assess the impact on Lake Michigan and the surrounding environment."

Rep. Schneider has been vocal about the need to protect the Great Lakes. In June, he offered a measure that would safeguard the Great Lakes from oil and gas drilling.

He also authored an amendment that would strengthen protections for the Great Lakes against invasive species by developing a coordinated national strategy to slow the spread of Asian carp. The amendment passed the House in October.

Rep. Schneider advocated for the full funding of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which helps fund efforts to protect Great Lakes.

Source