DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 49 Engrossed 2018 Regular Session Gisclair
Abstract: Includes integrated coastal protection projects as compensatory wetlands mitigation.
Present law generally requires mitigation for damage done to coastal wetlands. Requires the
secretary of the Dept. of Natural Resources to adopt regulations requiring such mitigation. Also
requires compensatory mitigation at a level sufficient to replace or substitute for the wetlands lost
due to permitted activities in the coastal area. Defines compensatory mitigation as the replacement,
substitution, enhancement, or protection of ecological values to offset anticipated losses.
Proposed law authorizes the inclusion of integrated coastal protection projects consistent with the
state's coastal master plan and located within the same watershed as the permitted activity as
compensatory wetlands mitigation for negative impacts caused by a permitted activity.
(Amends R.S. 49:214.41(A)(1) and (C))
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
The Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Natural Resources and
Environment to the original bill:
1. Provide that the coastal protection project must be located within the same watershed as
the permitted activity.