Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD) released the following statement in response to the recommendations released by the BP Oil Spill Commission:

“The President’s Oil Spill Commission recommends critical steps to rebalance our nation’s approach to offshore drilling so that science, safety and environmental risk must be considered along with possible oil production and profit,” said Senator Cardin, Chairman of the Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Water and Wildlife.  “I want to commend the Commission for its work, especially the contribution of Maryland’s own Don Boesch.  The growing record regarding the BP oil spill disaster indicates that the parties involved – including the Federal government – systematically understated and were unprepared for the risks involved in deep water drilling.  I look forward to working with the Administration and Chairman Boxer to ensure that Commission’s recommendations for better incorporating science, risk assessment and environmental protection are implemented.  We must continue to focus on the critical work of restoring the health of the Gulf of Mexico and ensuring clean, safe water for all Americans.

“This review of the Deepwater Horizon disaster once again shines light on dark side of our oil addiction.  I remain dedicated to securing a permanent ban on expanding offshore drilling in those places where the risks far outweigh the benefits, such as the Mid-Atlantic.  We can develop an energy policy that protects the environment, bolsters the economy, enhances our security, and re-establishes our global leadership on combating climate change.”