Requests the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to take actions necessary to timely review and grant the state of Louisiana's application for primacy in the administration of Class VI injection well permitting.
Impact
If enacted, SR123 would authorize Louisiana to take control of the regulatory process surrounding Class VI injection wells, which are critical for carbon sequestration. This move is seen as a way for the state to manage its environmental protections more effectively and bolster its economic interests. By centralizing authority, Louisiana aims to streamline the permitting process for carbon capture projects, which could lead to significant job creation and investment. The anticipated economic benefits include potential capital investment measured in tens of billions of dollars, as well as substantial reductions in carbon dioxide emissions.
Summary
Senate Resolution No. 123 (SR123) urges the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to expedite the review and approval of Louisiana's application for primacy in administering Class VI injection well permitting. This resolution seeks to ensure that Louisiana maintains its status as a leader in energy innovation and to facilitate the implementation of vital carbon capture and sequestration initiatives within the state. The resolution underscores the state's historical expertise in managing oil and gas production and its commitment to advancing transformative energy technologies that align with national energy strategies.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SR123 is predominantly positive among supporters who emphasize the importance of local governance in managing energy and environmental matters. Advocates argue that granting the state primacy will enable a more nuanced approach to permitting that reflects the unique geological and economic context of Louisiana. Critics, however, may raise concerns about environmental safeguards and the implications of shifting regulatory powers, though the resolution appears to have garnered strong bipartisan support in the legislature.
Contention
Notable points of contention revolve around the balance between federal oversight and state autonomy in environmental matters. While proponents highlight the advantages of localized decision-making and the potential for accelerated project approvals, there are apprehensions regarding the adequacy of environmental protections that might arise from reduced EPA oversight. The resolution indicates a memorandum of agreement with the EPA, suggesting a commitment to inclusivity during the permitting process, which could address some concerns about the impacts on vulnerable communities.
Memorializes the United States Environmental Protection Agency to timely grant the state of Louisiana's application for primacy in the administration of Class VI injection well permitting
Establishes a joint committee to study the impact of federal laws and regulations on the use of injection wells for the underground injection of fluids
Corporation Commission; modifying authority over certain injection wells; establishing process for Class VI facility applications and unitization. Effective date.
Providing for the injection of carbon dioxide into an underground reservoir for the purpose of carbon sequestration, for the ownership of pore space in strata below surface lands and waters of the Commonwealth, for conveyance of the surface ownership of real property; imposing duties on the Department of Environmental Protection and the Environmental Hearing Board; and establishing the Carbon Dioxide Storage Facility Fund.
Carbon sequestration; modifying jurisdiction over certain injection wells; establishing provisions for establishment of certain CO2 sequestration facilities and storage units. Effective date.
Creates a special task force for the legislature to work with the Department of Energy and Natural Resources, the Department of Environmental Quality, and the Louisiana Board of Regents to assess the capacity of government, industry, and academia to model the behavior of geologically sequestered carbon dioxide and to develop a method, if necessary
Creates a special task force for the House of Representatives to work with the Department of Energy and Natural Resources, the Department of Environmental Quality, and the Louisiana Board of Regents to assess the capacity of government, industry, and academia to model the behavior of geologically sequestered carbon dioxide and to develop a method, if necessary
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.