Authorizes the commissioner of conservation to certify to the U.S. Department of Transportation his regulatory authority over underground natural gas storage facilities
Impact
The enactment of HB 120 is poised to impact the regulatory landscape for energy within the state. By allowing the commissioner of conservation to present the state's authority to oversee safety practices for underground gas storage, it creates a clearer framework for regulatory compliance. This could potentially lead to improved safety measures within the industry, reducing the risk of accidents associated with gas storage and ensuring that state practices meet national safety standards.
Summary
House Bill 120, sponsored by Representative Bishop, authorizes the commissioner of conservation to certify regulatory authority over underground natural gas storage facilities to the United States Department of Transportation. This bill is significant as it grants the state the ability to oversee safety standards for intrastate gas storage facilities that are not regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The bill aims to ensure state jurisdiction aligns with federal regulations, thereby enhancing safety and compliance in the management of these facilities.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 120 appears to be supportive, particularly among those who advocate for heightened safety in the management of natural gas. The unanimous passage of the bill in the Senate, where it received 28 votes in favor without opposition, suggests a bipartisan agreement on the importance of safety regulations. The bill reflects an increasing recognition of the need for state-level oversight in additional aspects of energy regulation, supporting the notion that state authorities play a critical role in ensuring safety within their jurisdictions.
Contention
While HB 120 passed without opposition and demonstrates a unified approach to enhancing safety standards, it may face scrutiny regarding the adequacy of state oversight compared to federal regulations. Stakeholders within the energy sector may debate the effectiveness and relevance of increased state authority versus the existing federal framework, potentially raising questions about how regulatory enforcement will be managed. Additionally, the bill could initiate discussions on the balance between state and federal powers in the regulation of energy resources.
Authorizes the commissioner of conservation of the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources to enforce the La. Underground Utilities and Facilities Damage Prevention (OneCall) law as it applies to pipelines (EN INCREASE SD EX See Note)
Urges and requests the commissioner of conservation and the secretary of the Department of Natural Resources to conduct a comprehensive assessment and evaluation of hazards posed by certain pipelines