My article talks about the dilemma between putting more regulations on drilling in the United States, possibly exacerbating problems of the already weak American economy and overtaxing oil companies. The author’s first point is that Democrats say they have started to shy away from regulating offshore oil operations because it is simply too expensive or, more often, that it will further push our economy downward. Republicans, however, argue that Democrats fear a different bill will be proposed that will stop the EPA from spending money to regulate greenhouse gases from power plants and other major polluters.
An amazing statistic the author pointed out was that there are only 55 inspectors for about 3,000 oil and gas facilities in the Gulf. The final part of the article was concerned with what the oil companies think. The American Petroleum Institute stated, “The government is seeking to write energy policy and penalize the industry with disconnected policies and proposals that do not take into account long-term consequences.”
In reference to the author’s first point, I think that Democrats should push for more regulation. Not much can compare to negative effects of the oil spill in the Gulf just a few months back. The cleanup was in the billions and politicians are now worried about the costs of regulation going up from $184 million to $250. To me, that seems like nothing for the government and the oil industry to cover with so much at stake; so, I feel the out-of-pocket money excuse is a fraud. I also don’t buy that other excuse of the Democrats. They are not waiting for the economy to do better. More regulated offshore drilling cannot affect the American economy in such a powerful way—not nearly as powerfully as the BP oil spill. I buy the Republicans’ reasoning. There seems to be no real reason why the Democrats would sell out on one of their core values unless to compromise. With only 55 inspectors and 3000 oil operations, something must give. But, the quote from the American Petroleum Institute makes it clear that there is much backing for those who are already anchored at sea.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704285104575492301373764356.html?mod=WSJ_Energy_leftHeadlines
I agree with you Clarke. It is not a good idea at all to run over 3,000 operations with fifty-five inspectors. If they can't keep up with inspections then they should allow less operations. More regulation is clearly needed since the oil companies can't handle it themselves. They have proved several times over the past couple years their drilling projects aren't up to par. The politics of things always seem to prove a mess. Ethically, these large corporations need to start investing in a network that truly represents social good.
ReplyDelete