BALTIMORE, MD (January 4, 2018) – Maryland Attorney General Brian E. Frosh today released the following statement on President Trump’s plan to expand drilling off America’s
coastlines:
“The risks posed to our environment and local economies as a result of offshore drilling are unacceptable. Environmental disasters in the Gulf of Mexico and around the country should
serve as stark reminders of the permanent damage that results in offshore drilling.
“Fully one-half of the 18 trillion gallons of water in the Chesapeake Bay come from the Atlantic Ocean, and about one-third of the total area of the State of Maryland is covered by the Bay. But
where striped bass once ran thick, blue crabs scuttled and oysters grew in mounds along the shallow bottom, the Chesapeake Bay is now a shadow of its former self, crippled by polluted runoff,
nearby development and diseases. The Bay is extraordinarily vulnerable to pollution from offshore drilling. Pollution that flows into the Bay will remain there for years and cause
irreparable damage to its remaining resources.
“Super hurricanes in Florida, Texas and Puerto and unprecedented wildfires in California demonstrate the need to invest in clean power. Subjecting our coastlines to oil drilling is a bad
bet, especially when we know we must begin to face the challenge of climate change.
“Maryland and the rest of the Atlantic Coast boast some of the most pristine beaches in the country. Our Bay and our beaches are the source of enjoyment for millions of tourists
annually. We have a robust recreation economy and an historic seafood-based industry that are dependent upon a healthy Bay. Oil drilling off the Atlantic coastline is foolish, reckless and
unnecessary. President Trump and Secretary Zinke are placing the interests of the oil industry above the well-being and interests of millions of Americans who depend upon clean water for
their livelihoods and who treasure it as their heritage.
“We will fight every step of the way to protect our shores and our Chesapeake Bay from the dangerous and irresponsible decisions of this Administration.”