Louisiana House Bill HB317

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/12
• Refer: 3/12/12
• Report Pass: 4/3/12
• Engrossed: 4/12/12
• Refer: 4/16/12
• Report Pass: 5/14/12
• Enrolled: 5/29/12
• Chaptered: 6/5/12
• Passed: 6/5/12

Caption

Authorizes the use of salvage material in coastal protection and restoration projects

Impact

By allowing salvaged materials to be utilized in coastal restoration efforts, the bill creates an opportunity for more sustainable construction practices within the state. It enables the transformation of materials that would otherwise be wasted into useful resources for rebuilding coastal infrastructure. This legislative move aligns with broader environmental goals, fostering collaboration between transportation agencies and coastal restoration efforts. Consequently, it serves the dual purpose of resource conservation and environmental protection, enhancing the resilience of local ecosystems.

Summary

House Bill 317 focuses on the authorized use of salvaged materials for coastal protection and restoration initiatives in Louisiana. This legislation amends existing statutes to permit the Department of Transportation and Development to donate or transfer materials deemed of no salvage value from state road and bridge projects to the Office of Coastal Protection and Restoration. The aim is to facilitate the repurposing of these materials in an environmentally responsible way, contributing to the enhancement of Louisiana's coastal regions, which are often vulnerable to erosion and other environmental challenges.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 317 appears to be overwhelmingly positive, with a wide bipartisan support represented in its passage. Legislators view the bill as a proactive step toward addressing pressing coastal concerns while promoting sustainability. The absence of opposition during voting suggests a broad consensus on the necessity of leveraging salvaged materials to support coastal restoration and management. There seems to be a communal acknowledgment of the critical nature of these initiatives in light of ongoing environmental issues affecting the state.

Contention

While the bill successfully passed without dissent, discussions regarding its implications may arise concerning the management of resources and the effectiveness of utilizing salvaged materials. Some concerns may involve ensuring that the quality and appropriateness of salvaged materials do not compromise the integrity of coastal protection projects. Furthermore, the bill’s implementation will require clear guidelines and oversight mechanisms to ensure the responsible handling and distribution of salvaged materials, mitigating risks related to potential environmental impacts.