BP decided to give that much money is right, because I do believe there is some legislation already in place that says these oil companies only have to pay 75 million for damages, tax payers pick up the rest. That I think was signed by Clinton and the republicans and democrats way back when. Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund I think it's called? There is lot's of things out there they ain't reporting. BP has a lot to answer for, but our government was very willing partners, collecting royalties to boot, and telling oil compaines where to go as well.
The real bad part is, BO getting the cash...there goes any chance of getting it to the people who deserve it. They will get nothing but red tape, and be told what to do with anything they MIGHT get. Won't be any cash for them, not after the government gets it's hands on it.
BP could also file bankruptcy down the road as well...either way, the people won't get a dime, and we will pay the bill per old legislation, or just pay the bill because nobody else will. And if BO is waiting to find out what went wrong here before anyone gets to drill anymore, you won't be drilling...they still don't know what happened in 1979 form that big one. (PEMEX)
What we get from here on in is a lot more politics, and a lot better positioning of the progressive movements to pass more legislation before we can boot them out. Don't think this is going to be pretty at all.