Support Washington's Rescue Tug

The beautiful, pristine waters of Washington's coast are in danger of losing one of it's primary defenses from an oil spill occurrence. SB 5344, which provides year round funding for a rescue tug stationed in Neah Bay, Washington, is in need of support in order to maintain funding and continue to protect our coastal waters. A single oil spill could have detrimental effects on our already stressed marine industries and delicate ecosystems and the rescue tug offers a primary defense.

Under the bill, the oil industry and large shipping vessels will pay for the expense of the tug. It is an important asset to have at the ready. Even though it is located at Neah Bay, the rescue tug was critical in the response to the tanker Atigun Pass in 2001, after it broke its towline and Portland tugs were unable to respond in a timely manner because the bar was closed.

Please contact Senator Brian Hatfield (360) 786-7636 http://apps.leg.wa.gov/memberemail/MailForm.aspx?Chamber=S&District=19 to communicate your support for SB 5344 and ask for his support. Our coastal waters deserve to be protected in order to maintain the vital resources that support a strong coastal economy.