Louisiana House Bill HB838

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/12
• Refer: 3/12/12
• Report Pass: 5/8/12
• Engrossed: 5/16/12
• Refer: 5/17/12
• Report Pass: 5/21/12
• Enrolled: 6/4/12
• Chaptered: 6/13/12
• Passed: 6/13/12

Caption

Requires that monies received from violations of certain federal and state laws associated with the Deepwater Horizon oil spill be deposited into the Coastal Protection and Restoration Fund (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD RV See Note)

Impact

The legislation underscores the state’s commitment to addressing the consequences of the Deepwater Horizon oil disaster, ensuring that financial penalties from violators contribute directly to restoring Louisiana's coastal region. This policy shift signifies a holistic approach to coastal management, emphasizing that restoration efforts should benefit from all available financial resources, particularly those generated through environmental infractions. It aims at not only addressing the immediate environmental impacts but also fostering long-term sustainability and resilience against future disasters.

Summary

House Bill 838 establishes a clear directive for funds received by the state for violations pertaining to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Specifically, it mandates that any moneys resulting from violations under specific federal and state environmental laws be deposited into the Coastal Protection and Restoration Fund. This fund is crucial for ongoing efforts related to coastal restoration, hurricane protection, and resilience building in areas affected by the oil spill. By positioning these funds in a dedicated account, HB838 aims to enhance the management and allocation of resources directed at environmental recovery and protection efforts in Louisiana.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB838 appears generally positive, particularly among environmental advocates and lawmakers focused on coastal issues. Supporters argue that the bill is a significant step towards accountability for ecological damage and an important measure to bolster funding for essential restoration activities. The unanimous support in the legislative vote reflects a consensus that prioritizes environmental restoration and acknowledges the unique vulnerabilities faced by Louisiana's coastal areas.

Contention

Although the bill received significant backing, any potential points of contention could arise from debates around how effectively the funds will be managed and utilized. Critics might question the efficiency of fund allocation and whether such measures would lead to tangible improvements in coastal restoration. Moreover, there may be discussions about ensuring that such funds are not just seen as penalties, but rather are integrated into a broader strategy for addressing climate change and environmental sustainability in the state.