From Grover Robinson:
First, this a good step that consensus has developed between the Gulf States in the Senate. We believe both Senator Nelson and Rubio have displayed leadership in this effort and have negotiated the best deal they could for Florida. Senator Nelson has also championed local government and has a portion of the monies allocated directly to impacted counties. Additionally the language also includes the 75/25 majority split to impacted areas within a state that was included in the Gatez bill supported by the 8 County NW Florida Coalition.
Both of these inclusions are significant for Escambia County and NW Florida as a whole.
However this is a first step in a long legislative process. Our analysis indicates that Florida is not fully covered for its losses because the Senate version primarily favors environmental injuries. It is our hope as well as that of NW Florida Congressmen Rep. Miller and Southerland that the House could pursue a position that more adequately addresses Florida’s injury.
After all we in Florida have long championed a clean environment and this economic injury came from another state to us. Finally, all of the other Gulf States benefit directly economically and with their tax base from drilling revenues. Florida does not have the same opportunity to participate in those revenues but clearly, after the Deepwater Horizon Experience, we are not immune from the cost and the environmental dangers.
Overall this is a great first step that I believe needs only slight refinement to adequately address the injuries of each community.