Louisiana Senate Bill SR171

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/28/14
• Passed: 5/29/14

Caption

Requests the Louisiana State Law Institute to create a Water Code Committee.

Impact

The proposed establishment of a Water Code Committee aims to modernize and reform water laws in Louisiana, which are currently seen as insufficient in addressing the state's diverse water management needs. The committee, as proposed, would be interdisciplinary, bringing together experts from various fields, including academics, practitioners, and scientists, to create cohesive legislation that can adapt to the evolving challenges related to water resource management.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 171 urges and requests the Louisiana State Law Institute to establish a Water Code Committee to address and reform water law in Louisiana. The resolution is a response to the findings detailed in the 2014 report submitted by the Louisiana State Law Institute which highlighted the inadequacies in the current legal framework governing surface water and groundwater. The report emphasizes the need for a comprehensive Water Code that integrates all aspects of Louisiana's water resources to ensure effective management and conservation.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR171 appears to be generally supportive among those who advocate for comprehensive water legislation, particularly in the face of environmental changes and resource management needs. Legislators recognize that adequate water management is essential for both the environment and the economy. This resolution is seen as a proactive step toward fostering sustainability in the state’s water usage.

Contention

While the resolution itself may not include deep contentious elements, the discussions involved in forming the Water Code could elicit debate regarding local versus state regulatory powers and the implications of water rights. The challenge ahead will be balancing the interests of various stakeholders, including landowners, environmentalists, and industries reliant on water resources, to create a fair and effective water code that meets the needs of all parties involved.