Louisiana House Bill HCR49

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/14
• Refer: 4/1/14
• Report Pass: 4/9/14
• Engrossed: 4/15/14
• Refer: 4/16/14
• Report Pass: 5/5/14
• Passed: 5/7/14

Caption

Urges and requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to create a body of coastal parishes to aid in compliance with the RESTORE Act

Impact

If enacted, HCR49 would play a pivotal role in guiding the allocation of financial resources from the Gulf Coast Restoration Trust Fund established under the RESTORE Act. The Trust Fund is set to distribute significant financial penalties accrued from the oil spill, and the resolution ensures that at least thirty percent of Louisiana's share from the Direct Component of the Trust will directly support coastal parishes. By mandating that these parishes submit land use plans consistent with the state's Coastal Master Plan, the resolution aims to promote organized and effective restoration efforts that are critical to the restoration of the affected ecosystems.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 49 (HCR49) recommends that the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA) establish a committee comprised of officials from coastal parishes, employees or board members of the CPRA, and additional necessary members. The purpose of this committee is to facilitate the creation and development of land use plans for the coastal parishes in Louisiana. The resolution highlights the vital role these plans will play in the restoration efforts following environmental disasters like the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, which significantly impacted Louisiana's coastal ecosystems and the livelihoods of residents dependent on these resources.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR49 appears to be largely supportive, with an understanding of the ongoing challenges faced by coastal regions due to both environmental issues and economic reliance on these areas. Advocates for the bill emphasize the necessity of collaborative planning to address the long-term impacts of the oil spill and other environmental threats. Moreover, the resolution reflects a recognition of the importance of local governance in shaping restoration strategies, which resonates with existing sentiments among stakeholders in these parishes who are keen on having their voices heard in the planning process.

Contention

Although the resolution is generally well-received, some concerns have been raised regarding the effectiveness of creating a new committee and whether it would add unnecessary bureaucracy to the restoration process. Critics suggest that while local involvement is important, there should be clarity on the assembly's decision-making authority and the actual impact on timely implementation of necessary restoration projects. As restoration efforts are crucial for the affected communities, balancing local engagement with efficient governance remains a significant point of discussion.