Louisiana Senate Bill SB495

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/12
• Refer: 3/12/12
• Report Pass: 4/16/12
• Engrossed: 4/19/12
• Refer: 4/23/12
• Report Pass: 5/2/12
• Enrolled: 5/24/12
• Chaptered: 6/1/12
• Passed: 6/1/12

Caption

Revises the membership and powers and duties of the Ground Water Resources Commission. (8/1/12)

Impact

The legislative changes enacted by SB 495 focus on ensuring systematic oversight of Louisiana's groundwater resources by reestablishing and empowering the Ground Water Resources Commission. The bill mandates the commission to assess both groundwater and surface water resources, which includes evaluating resource availability, projected demands, and strategies for conservation. By emphasizing conservation, the bill seeks to mitigate issues like land subsidence and groundwater depletion, which can be exacerbated by improper management of these vital resources.

Summary

Senate Bill 495 aims to revise the structure and responsibilities of the Ground Water Resources Commission in Louisiana. Notably, it changes the composition of the commission, which will now include additional members, and provides for enhanced powers and duties to manage and conserve the state's groundwater resources effectively. This bill highlights the growing recognition of the importance of sustainable water management practices in responding to environmental challenges faced by the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 495 appears to be largely supportive, particularly among environmental advocates and stakeholders concerned with water management issues. Lawmakers have expressed the need for a cohesive structure to tackle water resource challenges more effectively. However, there may be underlying concerns from specific agricultural or industrial interests regarding the commission’s authority and the potential regulations that may arise from its new responsibilities, indicating a mixture of enthusiasm and apprehension regarding its implementation.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB 495 include discussions about the balance of power between state oversight and local control, especially in terms of how water resources are used and regulated. Stakeholders may have diverse interests, leading to debates over the appropriateness of state-level interventions in local water management practices. Additionally, the provision for integrating various stakeholders into the commission could lead to tensions if groups feel underrepresented in the decision-making processes regarding their water use.