Removes lands located in the Atchafalaya Basin from certain state lease requirements
Impact
The amendment notably alters the landscape of state lease requirements. By eliminating the improvement requirement for lease extensions, the bill facilitates continued land stewardship and agricultural use without imposing additional financial burdens on the lessees. This adjustment can positively impact businesses that may have previously hesitated to invest in leasing state lands due to stringent improvement mandates, ultimately aiding in economic development within the Atchafalaya Basin area. The bill reflects a recognition of the unique needs of the region and its agricultural stakeholders.
Summary
House Bill 311 aims to amend the existing regulations regarding the leasing of state lands in Louisiana, particularly those located between the guide levees of the Atchafalaya Basin. One significant change is the removal of the requirement that a lessee must construct improvements to the land in order to qualify for a lease extension. Instead, if compliant with lease conditions, lessees can extend their leases for up to four additional ten-year periods without the obligation to add improvements. This offers greater flexibility and security for lessees operating in this region, encouraging more utilization of state lands.
Sentiment
Sentiment around HB 311 appears supportive, particularly from those who would benefit from easier terms for land leases. Legislators backing the bill emphasize the importance of enhancing access to state lands for agricultural and business purposes. However, there could be concerns from environmental groups or local stakeholders about the long-term implications of potentially unregulated development or minimal improvements on these sensitive areas, such as the Atchafalaya Basin, which is ecologically significant.
Contention
While there is general support for the bill due to its perceived economic benefits, tensions may arise regarding the balance between land development and environmental stewardship. Critics may express worries that removing the improvement requirement could lead to neglect or suboptimal use of the land, diminishing its value and ecological integrity. Moreover, ongoing discussions about land management practices could surface as key points of contention and debate as stakeholders consider the best path forward for this vital area.
Transfers the responsibilities of the Atchafalaya Basin Research and Promotion Board and the Atchafalaya Basin Program from within the Department of Natural Resources to the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority. (7/1/18) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD EX See Note)
Constitutional amendment to remove the "trigger", and instead start on July 1, 2015, the new maximum allocation of certain severance taxes to parishes in which severance occurs and the distribution to the Atchafalaya Basin Conservation Fund of a certain amount of revenues received from severance taxes and royalties on state lands in the Atchafalaya Basin. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (7/1/15) (EG -$41,200,000 GF RV See Note)