Due to the inherent dangers encountered during the process of well drilling, it is imperative that knowledgeable, certified response teams be in place in case of an emergency.  An on-site presence of a team comprised of trained professionals who are well prepared to tackle issues arising from these operations is vital.  Additionally, response teams at the site have the ability to contact local first responders when necessary, proving crucial not only to the safety of the workers at the site, but also to residents in the surrounding community.
 
Considering this, I plan to reintroduce legislation empowering the Secretary of the Department of Labor and Industry (L&I) to establish regulations regarding response teams employed in operations surrounding the drilling and production of oil and gas wells.  It will require dedicated, certified, trained professional response teams to always be in place during exploration drilling and any time prior to well completion.  It will also require ongoing training of response team members and first responders.  Finally, it will ensure that local first responders, L&I, and the state response center are contacted in a timely manner during an emergency.
 
Join me in promoting safety on the job and providing security to the communities in which the wells are located.  By doing this, citizens may rest assured that in cases of a well emergency where time is paramount, the response team will be there to act immediately, securing the site and contacting first responders.