BP is too big to fail? So, the American tax payer must give aid and comfort to the company? Shall we raise taxes to save the economies of the Gulf Coast States, and let BP continue to earn profits in the $ billions?
What BP has done is criminal negligence, and given that criminals are punished to two ways - Prison or fines and usually ordered to make restitution, it's time to punish those individuals culpable and not their investors.
First, a criminal investigation needs to be undertaken by each state effected by their AG's, and individuals named as both principles and conspirators. A trial be held in each state where a full accounting of what happened, why and what coverups/lies were issued and under whose direction. If found guilty the offenders should be sentenced to long prison sentences and restitution be determined and property and assets surrendered.
Or will those responsible escape the consequences of their actions and once again prove that some people are really above and out of the reach of the law?