Louisiana House Bill HB94

Louisiana 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/8/13
• Refer: 4/8/13

Caption

(Constitutional Amendment) Dedicates to the Coastal Protection and Restoration Fund the Deepwater Horizon oil spill penalty monies received by the state under the RESTORE Act (OR NO IMPACT See Note)

Impact

The bill seeks to reinforce the state's commitment to environmental restoration and resilience by ensuring that penalties from the oil spill will be utilized specifically for coastal protection initiatives. By directing these funds to a dedicated restoration fund, it aims to provide a structured approach to addressing the ongoing ecological and infrastructural challenges faced by Louisiana's coastlines. The proposed amendment also clarifies that existing limitations on fund balances concerning mineral revenues do not apply to the new allocations, thus enhancing the financial resources available for restoration projects.

Summary

House Bill 94 proposes a constitutional amendment aimed at dedicating funds received by the state for violations of environmental and water quality laws related to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Specifically, the bill stipulates that any revenues obtained under federal and state regulations resulting from this catastrophic event, which occurred on April 20, 2010, will be allocated to the Coastal Protection and Restoration Fund. This fund is intended to support integrated coastal protection efforts, including coastal restoration and hurricane protection in Louisiana's coastal areas affected by the oil spill.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 94 appears to be supportive among environmental advocates and legislators concerned with coastal issues. Supporters believe that designating these funds specifically for restoration efforts underscores the importance of accountability for environmental violations and facilitates long-term recovery and protection of vulnerable coastal ecosystems. However, some may express concern regarding how these funds will be managed and the effectiveness of the restoration initiatives funded through this amendment.

Contention

One notable point of contention may arise regarding administrative oversight and the effectiveness of using the funds for their intended purpose. Critics might question whether the state will adequately manage the funds and ensure they lead to tangible improvements in coastal resilience and health. Furthermore, while the bill aims to strengthen legal frameworks, there may be debates about potential implications for how future penalties are assessed and used, as well as concerns about transparency and the monitoring of restoration efforts.