The Gulf Coast’s economy and environment were hard hit by the BP oil disaster. Though no oil reached the shores of the Tampa Bay area, our small businesses, hotels and tourism industry suffered. I am committed to restoring our environment and making sure our businesses recuperate from the devastation.

That is why one of my top priorities this congressional term was to direct 80 percent of the fines and penalties to be paid by BP for violations of the Clean Water Act to restoring the Gulf Coast.  In June, Gulf Coast states and the Gulf of Mexico achieved a major victory when the U.S. House of Representatives passed the RESTORE Act.

I am proud that parts of my bill, the Gulf of Mexico Economic and Environmental Restoration Act were included in the final version of RESTORE.  This legislation ensures that our small-business owners, our fishermen, our tourism industry and others impacted by the disaster get the help they need.

Drilling too close to shore imperils our economy, environment and security. This disaster in the Gulf of Mexico proves that oil drilling should not be allowed even one mile closer to the west coast of Florida.  It is simply not worth the risk.