Offshore oil leases won't boost state budget

            I've had a few questions lately about this idea of Florida getting oil-drilling revenues to help with its sagging budget - and, things like schools.  If you're swayed by this argument and big oil's latest push to put rigs off the tourism state, then you need to know something: oil money from federal leases cannot be used for that kind of stuff.  It can only be used to clean up the mess and damages from drilling.

            Here's how the law allows royalty money to be used:  mitigation of effects from drilling activities through onshore infrastructure projects; associated planning and administrative costs; coastal protection; and, mitigation of damage to animals or natural resources.

            There you have it.  No budget windfall.  Fact is - oil money won't build schools, or roads or pay teachers.  It'll just "mitigate" (slow down) the oil industry's ruination of the fourth largest state's economy and environment.

            Senator Bill Nelson (D-Florida)

            Washington