One hundred percent of coastal communities throughout South Carolina have demonstrated opposition to offshore drilling and exploration in the Atlantic, and we thank Rep. Mark Sanford for taking the lead against drilling off our shores.

On May 20 beach-goers and Lowcountry ocean activists took to Folly Beach for a beach cleanup and to participate in Hands Across the Sand.

Locals, both young and old and from various political parties, joined hands on our beach for several minutes, forming a human line in the sand to say no to offshore drilling and yes to a clean energy future.

As we oppose offshore drilling time and time again, we need our elected officials to stand with us particularly given President Trumps latest executive order that promotes energy exploration and production above all else.

Such expansion in the Atlantic poses a direct threat to our beaches that draw millions of tourists, to our fishing industry, and to our way of life. Coastal resources provide over 79,000 jobs and generate $4.4 billion annually statewide.

South Carolina wont trade this in for dirty and dangerous offshore drilling and seismic airgun blasting. I support Mr. Sanfords bill, the Coastal Economies Protection Act, and urge his colleagues in Congress to co-sponsor this legislation that protects our coast.

Marlo Ann Shedlock

Huger Street

Charleston

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Letter: Offshore drilling - Charleston Post Courier