Five members of the Massachusetts delegation have announced that they have received a letter from Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, who reported that the Coast Guard has “no present intention to initiate a legal challenge” against a Massachusetts law designed to prevent oil spills in Buzzards Bay.
Their release follows.
Secretary Napolitano’s action was in response to a joint letter from Senators John Kerry and Paul Kirk, along with Congressmen Barney Frank, James McGovern and William Delahunt, in which they argued that the federal government should not challenge theMassachusetts law.
“It’s common sense for an escort tug to accompany oil barges and it’s working effectively. Protecting the Bay from oil spills is paramount and I’m glad the Coast Guard will allow state law to continue to work as it was intended,” said Senator John Kerry.
Senator Kirk said “Buzzards Bay is one of the most treasured parts of our Massachusetts coastal waters. I commend Secretary Napolitano and the Coast Guard for their fair decision, which will enable us to have proper safeguards to prevent any future oil spill.”
“I am very grateful to Secretary Napolitano for responding to our concerns and agreeing not to try to block the Massachusetts state law regarding oil tankers in Buzzards Bay,” said Congressman Frank. This is a welcome contrast from the policy of the Bush administration. Until the day arrives when double-hulled tankers are required, it is vital that we take the necessary steps to protect our natural resources.”
“The Southeastern Massachusetts Congressional delegation has done an outstanding job on this issue,” continued Frank, “and we will continue to work together to protect the bay. Specifically, we will remain in close contact with state officials to assure them that we will not yield to pressure for any changes that would prevent vigorous protection ofBuzzards Bay.”
“I applaud this decision and commend Congressman Frank for taking the lead in our ongoing efforts to protect Buzzards Bay,” said Congressman Delahunt. “The coastal waters of the Cape and Islands are among the most important and sensitive marine waters in the country and they deserve nothing but the highest level of protection and conservation.”
“I’m pleased that the Department of Homeland Security has decided to not pursue this matter in court,” Rep. McGovern said. “It is essential that we maintain the highest standards to ensure the health of Buzzards Bay and the safety of South Coast residents.”
The Massachusetts state law requires special safeguards for single-hulled oil tankers navigating Buzzards Bay, including a provision requiring use of Massachusetts escort tugs, provided by the state. The legislation was written in response to a major accident, which in 2003 spilled approximately 100,000 gallons of oil into Buzzards Bay.