On Clean Water Act anniversary, groups demand BP pay up for gulf oil spill
By Ryan Rastegar, Mississippi River Delta Restoration Campaign Coordinator
Today marks the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Clean Water Act! In effect since October 18, 1972, this federal law prevents the releasing of toxic substances into our waters. The enforcement of this law is fundamentally important, not just to the people, wildlife and birds of the Mississippi River Delta, but to the entire country that depends on clean, healthy waters.
In the summer of 2010, BP and other responsible parties violated the Clean Water Act when they dumped nearly five million barrels of oil into the Gulf of Mexico. Two years later, BP STILL has not paid a dime in Clean Water Act fines. Under current law, BP must pay penalties for each barrel of oil spilled into the gulf. Unfortunately, they are stalling the process and are actively trying to walk away from paying the full amount for which they are liable.
We can’t let that happen.
To celebrate today’s anniversary, we’re putting the pressure on BP and telling them to stop shortchanging the gulf and pay the maximum Clean Water Act fines for which they are liable – now.
Ways you can help: