Louisiana Senate Bill SB281

Louisiana 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/22/15
• Refer: 4/27/15

Caption

Provides for tax credits to landowners that require lessees of Louisiana property to use 100% biomass crop recovery for the term of the lease. (8/1/15) (OR DECREASE GF RV See Note)

Impact

The enactment of SB 281 would alter Louisiana's tax landscape, particularly for landowners engaged in agricultural leases. By granting tax credits, the state promotes not only the recovery of biomass waste but also encourages practices that could contribute to renewable energy sources. The financial incentive is expected to make it more attractive for landowners to require sustainable practices from their lessees, ultimately reinforcing state objectives surrounding environmental stewardship and energy efficiency.

Summary

Senate Bill 281, introduced by Senator Cortez, aims to incentivize landowners in Louisiana to practice biomass recovery by offering tax credits. Specifically, the bill provides a credit of $100 per acre for landowners whose lessees are required to recover 100% of the biomass waste produced from growing sugar cane. This initiative is intended to promote environmental sustainability and efficient land use, aligning with broader state efforts to improve ecological outcomes while potentially enhancing economic benefits for landowners involved in the sugar production industry.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 281 appears to be positive, particularly among stakeholders in the agricultural and environmental sectors. Proponents see the bill as a proactive measure that enhances sustainability efforts while providing economic relief to landowners. However, there may be concerns about the adequacy of the credit and its actual implementation in varied agricultural contexts. Thus, while overall support is evident, stakeholders are also mindful of the practical implications of the legislation.

Contention

Despite the generally favorable sentiment, there are aspects of contention surrounding the bill. Critics may argue that the tax credit, although beneficial, could lead to potential misuse if not properly monitored, raising questions about compliance among lessees regarding biomass recovery practices. Additionally, the effectiveness of the credit in genuinely encouraging biomass recovery rather than mere financial gain remains a point of debate among stakeholders. The discussions emphasize the balance between incentivizing environmental practices and ensuring that such incentives do not inadvertently disadvantage certain groups.