FROM DNR SECRETARY SCOTT ANGELLE TO ALL DNR EMPLOYEES:

Statement by Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco
On Landrieu-Vitter Amendment to Senate Energy Bill

"Over White House objections, our two senators today scored an historic victory for Louisiana's coast. Senators Landrieu and Vitter's amendment to the Energy Bill received 69 votes on the floor of the U.S. Senate, giving Louisiana and other coastal producing states $1 billion over four years for coastal impact assistance.

"This is the first time the Senate has acknowledged what our state does for the rest of the nation and would give us this money in direct, automatic payments, not subject to the appropriations process.

"Last year, I challenged our delegation to work together to secure the federal resources for our coast. Today, I congratulate Senators Landrieu and Vitter for accomplishing what many thought was impossible. This is a tremendous victory for Louisiana and it is only the beginning. We have a lot of coast to restore and this will be a long-term effort, but this is the breakthrough we've been waiting for.

"I also congratulate our House delegation members for the important work they have done on this issue and look forward to a final victory as this bill moves to the House-Senate conference committee."