WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Lois Capps released the following statement reacting to today’s Supreme Court decision regarding the Navy’s use of mid-frequency active sonar during training exercises in southern California:

“It’s disappointing that the Supreme Court narrowly rejected common sense precautions for marine mammals during Navy training exercises.  Clearly, our military’s primary mission is ensuring the safety of our nation and comprehensive training exercises are critical to that effort.  But that doesn’t mean we can’t find an appropriate balance between protecting our national security interests and protecting marine mammals, like whales and dolphins.  Unfortunately, the Court dismissed this careful balancing act by affirming another of the Bush Administration’s efforts to circumvent existing environmental laws.  I am hopeful that a new Obama Administration will take a more balanced approach on the issue.” 

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Pictured above: (center) Congresswoman Capps meets with Central Coast firefighters to discuss emergency preparedness.