The following is the text of a press release issued by U.S. Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, D-Md.:
(WASHINGTON) — Today, Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-Md.), Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, released the following statement in response to the release of more than 400,000 gallons of # 6 oil into the Mississippi River as the result of a collision in New Orleans this morning that split a barge in half:
“This morning’s oil spill on the Mississippi River is nothing less than a tragedy, and my colleagues on the Subcommittee and I will be thoroughly examining the causes leading up to this devastating event. It is of great concern that we have witnessed two major oil spills on U.S. waters in less than one year, and we must identify and implement whatever actions are necessary to prevent such mishaps from occurring in the future.
“It is my hope that the members of the U.S. Coast Guard will approach this incident with the same effectiveness and efficiency that was demonstrated in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and I will be in close communication with them to ensure that this is the case. The Mississippi River is a vital waterway for the commerce of the United States and supplies the drinking water utilized by the City of New Orleans. Effective response by all parties is essential.”
