Urges and requests DOTD to study the impact of expanding the territorial jurisdiction of the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority
Impact
If enacted, the resolution could lead to significant changes concerning how flood control and hurricane protection efforts are managed throughout Louisiana. The results from the study requested could potentially alter state laws governing the operation and oversight of levee districts, thus broadening the Authority's responsibilities. This could foster a more coordinated approach to flood management in both coastal and non-coastal areas, helping to protect more communities from flood-related disasters.
Summary
HCR171 urges the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) to conduct a study on the implications of expanding the jurisdiction of the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority. This bill highlights the existing mandate of the Authority, which currently oversees various hurricane protection and flood control projects uniquely in coastal areas. By exploring the possibility of including levee districts not situated within these coastal zones, HCR171 aims to address regulatory gaps that may exist, ensuring comprehensive flood control measures across the state.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR171 is generally positive, particularly among those favoring enhanced flood protection measures in Louisiana. Supporters argue that expanding the Authority's jurisdiction aligns with the pressing need for reinforced levee systems, especially in light of climate change and increasing severe weather events. However, there might be some hesitation from local entities concerned about increased state oversight potentially infringing upon local governance and resource allocation.
Contention
Notably, considerations may arise regarding the practical implications and fiscal responsibilities of such an expansion. As the DOTD undertakes this study, stakeholders may engage in debates around funding allocations, the impact of new regulations on existing levee district operations, and the potential need for additional infrastructure investments. These deliberations are critical in determining how the expanded jurisdiction could affect statewide priorities and local communities’ autonomy.
Requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to study the advisability of including Acadia Parish and Jefferson Davis Parish in the Chenier Plain Coastal Restoration and Protection Authority
Urges and requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority and the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-East and West Bank to study the feasibility of spending funds across the various levee districts
Urges and requests Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to study the practicality and feasibility of the state authorizing tax credits for certain coastal preservation projects
Urges and requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to study and make recommendations regarding multijurisdictional funding of flood protection projects
Requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to include compensatory mitigation for fisheries impacts in the calculation of project costs for coastal restoration projects contained in the coastal master plan and annual plans
Urge and request the Department of Transportation and Development and the Office of Coastal Protection and Restoration to study the feasibility of creating a regional levee district made up of the parishes of Vermillion, Iberia and St. Mary
Urges and requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority and the Department of Natural Resources work with local political subdivisions with statutory responsibility for activities that require state coastal use permits to determine the necessity of state coastal use permits
Provides for the respective responsibilities of the Department of Transportation and Development and the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority in the coastal area