While much of the damage associated with the massive 2010 BP oil spill occurred along the Gulf Coast, the economic damage that was caused by the spill affected inland communities as well. In fact, some of the municipalities that have received settlements from the spill are over a hundred miles from the coast. The proportion of funds that were received by these communities is small compared to the overall settlement amount. It is estimated that thirty two inland communities received a total of approximately eight million dollars as part of the settlement.
The economic impact of the oil spill was felt by communities both large and small. The damages reported by inland communities was largely associated with tourism. Big cities like Birmingham and Jackson were affected, as well as smaller communities like Ruleville, Mississippi. Tourism was affected by a decline in people visiting the area. Sales tax and revenue from restaurants were also affected by the seafood shortage caused by the oil spill.
While some communities, both on the coast and inland, have participated in the settlement, others rejected settlement offers and are continuing to pursue their individual claims. Other municipalities had resolved their claims in advance of the settlement. The settlement offers that were extended as part of the settlement program were calculated by a panel of individuals who had been appointed by the federal judge who has handled the majority of oil spill litigation cases.
The communities which have received settlement money are directing those funds to public schools, because the overall economic losses associated with the spill led to decreases in school funding. Law enforcement agencies are also slated to receive some of the funds, because the economic decline in the years following the spill had reduced their funding as well. Hospitals and airports which have been postponing badly needed improvement projects will also receive some of the settlement money so that some of those projects can get underway.
Barrett Law PLLC: Representing Those Whose Were Affected by the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill
The Mississippi BP Oil Spill Attorneys at Barrett Law PLLC are dedicated to helping people with BP oil spill claims. We understand that the resources associated with settling these claims can help affected individuals and businesses move forward from the economic losses that they have experienced. The effects of the spill are far-reaching, and we are constantly becoming aware of more and more things that are happening with the BP oil spill litigation. We understand that these developments may be of interest to you, so we like to share them with you. If you are involved in a case about oil spill damages, we are here to help you. If you have any questions about the BP oil spill litigation, please call the Mississippi BP Oil Spill Attorneys at Barrett Law PLLC today, at 1 (601) 790-1505, to schedule an initial consultation.
