The BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico was one of the worst environmental breaches America has seen. BP is asking that the fine be lowered, claiming that the drop in oil prices has dropped their value approximately 10 billion dollars. The governments lawyer is looking for a fine of $11.7-13.7 billion, on top of the $42 billion dollars already allocated for fines, compensation and cleanup; they may also face fees from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment for restoration work. The court has already found that BP was grossly negligent, however the fine per barrel is now under scrutiny. While the government estimates 4.09 million barrels of oil were spilled, a US District Court judge has decided on a total of 3.19 million barrels. BP could face fines up to $4,300 per barrel, although they are contending that the maximum is $3,000 per barrel since it was never adjusted for inflation by Congress.

ReferencesKaminsky, J. (2015, January 20). BP asks for lower fine in penalty phase of Gulf spill trial. Retrieved January 22, 2015, from Reuters: http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/01/20/us-bp-trial-idUSKBN0KT11T20150120