Implications of Abrupt Ending to Special Session on Off Shore Drilling

The Florida State Legislature's special session that was called to discuss whether or not to place the question of whether or not to place the question of off shore drilling on the November ballot has caused anger among more than the environmentalists in the state.

The Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce was very vocal in their statement that followed the ending to the session. A representative of the Chamber lashed out at the Senators stating that it was not a political party question but a question of businesses on the coastline and the Senators completely ignored the people of Florida.

Many that I spoke with about the decision to not even discuss the option were further enraged at the cost of the special session that was not given a true opportunity to be heard on the floor. While it is true that currently in the State of Florida there is a law on the books that prevent any off sure drilling, the referendum would be to add it to the State Constitution.

While the Gulf is bleeding oil still, the clean up is on going, and every one has their personal opinion of whether or not we should drill off the coast, there are other issues that are being played out under the guise of being related to the oil spill.

The changing of the State's Constitution is far reaching in its implications. When we change the Constitution it affects generations to come. A bigger question is should Florida in the economic state currently in, be having a Special Session that costs money while other essential programs are cut? Further, if the Senate has a Special Session and the money is already spent, should they abruptly end it without fully discussing the reason that it was called?

The impact of the oil spill is far reaching. It is affecting our environment in ways that we will not be able to comprehend for generations to come. It is affecting the local economy. Tourism is down, fisherman are out of work, and many beaches are empty. The economy is not profiting from having another countries company coming to our shores to drill oil and then selling it back to us for a profit. It is affecting our political state as lines are being drawn over the question of drilling rather than economic recovery and bringing jobs back to the state.

The bottom line for everyone, regardless of your opinion on these issues, is to become active again in who we place in our Government. I hear so many pontificating on their opinions on line, yet when I bring the question of how many voted in the last election many of those same voices go silent. When I ask how many have read the actual referendums rather than on line opinion's - silence. It is our responsibility to vote. It is our responsibility to share beliefs and opinions with our elected officials. If you are unhappy with the state of affairs - speak up to your elected officials. Let them hear your voice.