Environment

I support efforts to ensure the natural beauty of Mississippi is enjoyed by generations to come. Our state offers diverse and unique characteristics that add to Mississippi’s great quality of life and appeal as a tourist destination.  From untamed forests to fragile wetlands, I am committed to protecting our natural resources in a balanced way that preserves our environment for sportsmen, fishermen, and outdoor enthusiasts.

As we continue to rebuild communities after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina and the more recent Deepwater Horizon oil spill, it is vital that we also rebuild the Gulf Coast ecosystem.  To that end, I am working hard to ensure the barrier islands off the Gulf Coast are restored to their pre-Katrina conditions in order to provide natural protection from future hurricanes and safe harbor for our abundant marine life.  I also am joining with other Gulf Coast lawmakers to ensure funds from Clean Water Act penalties resulting from the Deepwater Horizon spill are distributed directly to impacted Gulf States.  I believe these funds should be made available for locally-directed restoration and recovery priorities.