Larsen Seeks Review of Oil Spill Response Plans Amid Pipeline Concerns

Washington State Congressman Rick Larsen has expressed concerns over the potential risks of an oil pipeline from Alberta to British Columbia's Roberts Bank terminal. The congressman, who is the top Democrat on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, claims that the new pipeline will increase oil tanker traffic in the Salish Sea.

In a letter to a top U.S. Coast Guard official, Larsen sought details about co-ordination efforts around a Canada-U.S. pollution contingency plan. He emphasized the importance of reviewing and updating oil spill response plans due to the increased risk of catastrophic oil spills.

Larsen stated that the joint contingency plan outlines how both countries coordinate preparation for oil spills that could harm marine ecosystems and environments in both nations. He intends to share his concerns with Canadian counterparts, citing opposition from constituents to the pipeline project.