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President Barack Obama issued a proposal Wednesday that would allow offshore drilling in Florida. If passed drilling could happen as close as 125 miles off the coast. The legislation would negate the current ban that keeps drilling off-limits 234 miles West of the coast of Tampa. President of Florida Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Stores Associations Jim Smith says offshore drilling will allow the US to gain energy independence. But Florida Sierra Club Organizer Phil Compton says exploring energy options other than nonrenewable resources is important. Compton also says investing in clean energy will help the US gain energy independence more than offshore drilling. Smith says President Obama's proposal will help the U-S more than it would hurt. Florida governor Charlie Crist supports Obama's decision to explore drilling options while respecting the environment. While the topic still remains controversial, this proposal is a big topic for both sides of the arguement.