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The oil industry is disputing claims against offshore drilling made by US Senator Bill Nelson.

Nelson is touring the Florida coastline speaking out against a congressional measure to drill for oil 10 miles from Florida’s Gulf Coast. Nelson says drilling that close to shore would jeopardize national security by shutting down military bases near the coast. Nelson also says drilling wouldn’t lower gas prices. David Mica with the Florida Petroleum Council said the state would see a huge economic impact from offshore oil drilling.

“We disagree strongly with the regards to the economic impact that our activities have across the board to the consumers. We are talking about jobs, we’re talking about paying additional taxes, we are talking about American energy that is good in its own right,” said Mica.

Senator Nelson says if the drilling bill makes it to the Senate floor he will filibuster to postpone a vote.