Kagen drills for answers on oil spill

Kagen drills for answers on oil spill

Larry Bivins, Gannett Wisconsin

WASHINGTON — Rep. Steve Kagen urged the president of BP America on Wednesday to set aside $25 billion to cover damages and liability claims related to the massive oil spill that is befouling the Gulf of Mexico and threatening U.S. coastlines.

Kagen, D-Appleton, participated in a hearing of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee into the circumstances surrounding the April 20 Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion, in which 11 workers were killed. Oil continues to leak into the Gulf.

Speaking to reporters after questioning oil executives, Kagen said BP America and Transocean Ltd. have to take responsibility for the environmental damage and lives lost as a result of the accident.

Kagen said BP America President Lamar McKay, who testified at the hearing, was cool to the congressman’s suggestion that his company reserve $25 billion.

"When asked to be responsible, BP took a pass," Kagen said later. "If, as they claim, they are responsible, then show us the money."

McKay said in a written statement that BP was committed to fulfilling its responsibilities to address the economic and environmental impact of the spill.