Larsen Seeks Oil Spill Plan Update Amid Pipeline Expansion

U.S. Congressman Rick Larsen has written to the U.S. Coast Guard seeking an update on oil spill response plans for a new pipeline from Alberta to British Columbia's Roberts Bank terminal.

The pipeline, which will transport crude oil through waters adjacent to the Canada-U.S. border, is expected to increase tanker traffic in the Salish Sea, according to Larsen.

Larsen, who serves as the top Democrat on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, expressed concern over the potential for catastrophic oil spills that could harm marine ecosystems and environments on both sides of the border.

The joint Canada-U.S. pollution contingency plan outlines how the two countries coordinate preparation for oil spills, but Larsen wants more information on the current status of this plan.