Statement on BP Oil Spill into Lake Michigan

Today, BP announced an oil spill from its Whiting Refinery has contaminated Lake Michigan. State and federal authorities are still working to assess and contain the damage. Rep. Jan Schakowsky released the following statement in response to the news:

“I am incredibly concerned about the news of the Whiting tar sands oil spill and its possible impact on Lake Michigan, my constituents, and millions of other Chicagoans. Lake Michigan supplies drinking water for seven million Chicagoans, and it provides summer entertainment for swimmers, boaters, and beach goers. It is a truly irreplaceable resource, and the recent spill could jeopardize public health and the environment.

“I have expressed serious concerns about the Whiting refinery dating back to 2008 when it expanded operations. The refining of Alberta tar sands at the plant results in 17 percent more pollution than conventional oil, and it also results in high levels of petroleum coke byproduct that has built up on the South Side of Chicago. This spill suggests yet another reason that tar sands are wrong for our country and a threat to public health and our environment.

“Moving forward, I will continue to follow this situation closely, take any steps necessary to protect the waters of Lake Michigan, hold BP accountable for its actions, and ensure that this type of accident never happens again.”