(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (South Louisiana) issued the following statement in response to the announcement by the U.S. Department of Justice that British Petroleum Exploration and Production Inc. (BP) agreeing to plead guilty to felony manslaughter, environmental crimes, and obstruction of Congress and to pay $4 billion in criminal fines and penalties for its conduct leading to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster killing 11 people and causing the largest environmental disaster in U.S. history:

“I am encouraged the unprecedented criminal penalties and fines mark a significant first step in the right direction. However, some of the biggest liabilities – particularly the penalty that could come out of the Clean Water Act – are still facing the company.  As BP continues to process settlement claims, the road to recovery remains long for many families across South Louisiana.  It is crucial we don’t forget those cases and remain committed to restoring the Gulf Coast to its pre-tragedy condition. I remain committed to the restoration of the Gulf Coast and will continue to work with the Corps of Engineers, state, and local officials to repair our precious wetlands.”

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