Gov. Cuomo wrote, “With this plan, the federal government is trampling on the interests of New Yorkers and threatening the future wellbeing of our state.”
New York coastline plays a vital role in state’s economy
Furthermore, he emphasized that state’s coastline is unique and plays a vital role in its economy. According to him, the New York Harbor is highly-populated—home to 11.4 million people. The state’s ocean economy generates tens of billions of dollars and provides hundreds of thousands of jobs.
Gov. Cuomo also pointed out that an oil spill will “cripple the state’s ocean tourism economy and devastate coastal systems.”
Finally, he said the federal government plan “undermines New York’s efforts to combat climate change.” The state aims to shift from greenhouse gas emitting fossil energy sources to renewable sources such as offshore wind. It is committed to achieving 2.4 gigawatts of offshore wind energy by 2030 to power 1.2 million homes.
Florida obtains exemption
Sec. Zinke exempted Florida from offshore drilling after his discussions with Gov. Rick Scott last week.
