Protecting the environment and working towards clean energy and energy independence
Congressman Murphy was born and raised in the Florida Keys and the protection of our natural resources is critically important to him. Sound environmental policy isn't just morally correct - its good business for America, and especially good for Florida. It preserves the economy, creates jobs, and protects Florida’s fragile ecosystems and tourism industry.
Immediately following the BP oil spill, Congressman Murphy spent six months in the Gulf of Mexico leading cleanup efforts with his small business, Coastal Environmental Services. The spill was devastating not only to the environment, but also to the coastal communities, fishermen, restaurant owners, and hotel workers of the region. The ripple effect was enormous and is still being felt. Congressman Murphy is committed to working to prevent similar devastation to the Treasure Coast and Palm Beaches by prohibiting drilling off the east coast of Florida or in the Everglades.
America’s environmental policy should not only be crafted to preserve our ecosystems and jobs – it should be designed to create new industries. Green technologies and advancements that create greater efficiency will be crucial to future growth, and it is in our national interest as we begin to extricate ourselves from reliance on foreign oil and fossil fuels.
Protecting the Local Environment
The Indian River Lagoon and the St. Lucie River are prized Treasure Coast assets. Congressman Murphy will work to prevent Lake Okeechobee releases that contain too much phosphorous and other fertilizer run-off from entering the St Lucie River. These releases have damaged the fish population and sea grasses in recent years. Addressing Lake Okeechobee restoration issues will help the water quality in these bodies. Further, Congressman Murphy will work across the aisle to break the federal and state logjam that prevents the restoration of the Everglades. Congressman Murphy has joined the recently reintroduced Everglades Caucus and is working to secure sufficient funding to protect the Everglades.
Some of the most beautiful beaches in the world are along and adjacent to the Treasure Coast, including Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge and John D. MacArthur State Park at Singer Island. He is looking for ways to develop standards and new sources of sand for beach re-nourishment projects.
Lastly, as a life-long Floridian and outdoorsman, Congressman Murphy understands the importance of our environment – not just as a matter of air and water quality for future generations, but for our economy. Florida tourism, hospitality, real
estate, fishing, and many other industries depend on it.