President Obama's plan to expand offshore drilling is expected to have positive impacts in Louisiana, particularly for the oil and gas service industry.

"I think it'll be a great opportunity for Louisiana businesses, we obviously know more about offshore drilling than any other state, so that can mean good paying jobs for our people," said Governor Bobby Jindal.

While the president's plan will establish platforms as far away as Virginia, it's companies in the oil and gas service industry here in Louisiana that stand to benefit. Businesses like those at the Port of Iberia, where the announcement couldn't come soon enough

"2009 was a very slow year for us," said Roy Pontiff, Executive Director of the Port of Iberia.

Like many in the oil and gas service industry, some at the Port of Iberia have suffered in a down economy but stand to benefit from the president's announcement, by literally building the framework for new offshore platforms, wherever they might be located.

"Our business is offshore oil and gas modular construction and we benefit anytime additional tiers are open for exploration and production of oil," Pontiff said.

Not all reaction to the president's announcement has been positive. Some have criticized Obama's latest federal budget, which reportedly calls for the elimination of some $36-billion in drilling incentives.

Jim Hummel

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