Legal Fight Intensifies Over BP Oil Spill Fund

BP’s spill-claims fund administrator, would like a federal court to preside over their Mississippi lawsuit, instead of the state court. Although this case was the worst offshore spill in U.S. history, he feels that court supervision is unnecessary when ensuring that these victims are compensated justly and quickly. He is also stating that the federal court actually has jurisdiction since the spill originated on the Outer Continental Shelf.

Mississippi state officials are claiming otherwise and saying that the fund is not being properly handled for oil spill victims and they would like access to the claims filed by coastal residents. They are also saying that there have been intentional delays in the claim process and denying of legitimate claims.

Overall, the oil spill fund was set up to help people whose businesses and lives were impaired by the spill. BP still faces more than 350 lawsuits by property owners, fishing interests and tourism businesses claiming harm from the spill.