Editorial

Print newspapers are still the primary way that tens of millions of Americans receive information about their communities and the world. They are also the way that many people find out about job opportunities. While we assume that everyone has an internet connection, the fact is that many areas of the country have limited or no internet service. According to the Federal Communications Commission, nearly 40 percent of Americans living in rural areas lack access to fixed broadband internet.

Some recent editorials and news stories have falsely characterized regulatory review efforts currently underway at the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, apparently without having actually read the proposed revisions. One editorial in the Houston Chronicle expressed worries that many, including the U.S. Government and our agency, commonly referred to as BSEE, might have forgotten the lessons of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon tragedy and other offshore incidents. For the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement nothing could be further from the truth.

To the Editor:

The coming holiday season is a joyous time of the year. It is also a dangerous time of the year to be driving. Most accidents are preventable. It only takes a little effort to drive safely and obey traffic laws. Failure to observe traffic laws can be costly in damages and loss of life.

Some of the major causes of accidents include:

1. Driving under the influence of alcohol. If you drink, don’t drive.

2. Speeding.  It better to be a little late than not get there because of an accident.