Requires the Lafitte, Crown Point, and Barataria levee projects to be completed prior to the completion of the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion project
Impact
The implications of HB 795 are significant as it alters the timeline and priorities for coastal restoration projects in Louisiana. By requiring the completion of the levee projects first, the bill is intended to ensure enhanced flood protection for communities in those areas before undertaking sediment diversion efforts which can be complex and time-consuming. Supporters believe that completing levee projects will provide immediate benefits to the affected areas, while ensuring residents and businesses are better protected from flooding events.
Summary
House Bill 795 focuses on the state of Louisiana's coastal protection initiatives, specifically mandating that the Lafitte, Crown Point, and Barataria levee projects be completed before the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion project can proceed. This bill emphasizes the importance of prioritizing levee construction in flood-prone regions, addressing critical flood risks presented by Louisiana's unique geological and meteorological conditions. The bill is part of a broader effort to bolster the state's defenses against storm surges and rising sea levels, which threaten both communities and ecosystems.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 795 appears to be largely positive among proponents of coastal restoration and flood protection. Legislators and stakeholders recognize the critical importance of levees in safeguarding infrastructure and reducing catastrophic flood damage. Conversely, some skepticism may arise regarding the feasibility of adhering to the new timeline and the potential for delays in the sediment diversion project, which is also crucial for long-term ecological stability and land-building efforts.
Contention
Notable points of contention may include concerns from environmental advocates about whether prioritizing levee construction could detract from the overall coastal restoration strategy that includes sediment diversion. Critics may argue that focusing too narrowly on levee projects could lead to a false sense of security while ultimately neglecting the broader ecological restoration required to combat coastal erosion and habitat loss in the region. The balancing act between immediate flood protection and sustainable environmental practices will likely be a central theme in discussions around HB 795.
Urges and requests the United States Army Corps of Engineers to reconsider the mitigation and stewardship plan for the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion to include tidal levee protection for Lafitte, Barataria, and Crown Point
Requires that mitigation monies associated with the funding for the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion integrated coastal protection project shall be allocated to the Lafitte Area Independent Levee District and used to complete levee improvements
Requires that mitigation funding associated with the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion project be used to compensate commercial fishermen for losses associated with that project
To urge and request the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to report on potential liabilities to the state general fund if the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion project is not timely completed (EN NO IMPACT See Note)
Requests the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium to conduct a study on the lack of shrimp growth in the Barataria Basin.
Requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to perform a cost benefit analysis on merging the Lafitte Area Independent Levee District with the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-West.
Requests the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to consider additional water diversion projects in addition to the Bonnet Carre' and Morganza Spillways to address high water issues on the Mississippi River.