Louisiana House Bill HCR155

Louisiana 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/18/15
• Refer: 5/19/15

Caption

Requests that the office of conservation enforce plug and abandon policies to prevent subsidence and erosion in the coastal zone

Impact

The resolution could have significant implications for state environmental policies, particularly those related to oil and gas extraction. By urging the office of conservation to enforce and potentially enhance its regulations regarding well abandonment, HCR155 seeks to address the environmental consequences that arise from improperly managed oil and gas wells. This move is essential in the context of Louisiana's alarming coastal land loss and is intended to support both environmental restoration efforts and the sustainability of the local economy.

Summary

HCR155, introduced by Representative Gisclair, is a House Concurrent Resolution advocating for the enforcement of policies regarding the plugging and abandonment of wells in Louisiana's coastal zone. The resolution emphasizes the critical need for the office of conservation to uphold existing regulations and adopt new ones as necessary to mitigate the impacts of subsidence and erosion. The bill reflects a broader commitment to preserving the state's coastal resources, crucial for both environmental health and the oil and gas industry that operates in these regions.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding HCR155 appears to be generally positive among environmental advocates and those concerned about coastal preservation. Supporters of the resolution recognize it as an important step in safeguarding Louisiana's vulnerable coastal regions, which are experiencing significant challenges due to subsidence and erosion. However, the resolution also raises potential concerns among certain industry stakeholders about the implications for operational regulations and costs associated with stricter enforcement.

Contention

While HCR155 is primarily a request rather than a binding legislative action, it signals a commitment to addressing urgent issues regarding coastal resource management. Some contention may arise from the oil and gas community, as increasing regulatory measures may lead to heightened operational constraints. Balancing environmental priorities with economic interests will be a significant challenge going forward, as stakeholders from both sides of the debate will need to navigate the complexities of conservation practices alongside industry viability.