Louisiana House Bill HCR102

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/16/11
• Engrossed: 5/16/11
• Report Pass: 5/23/11
• Passed: 5/25/11

Caption

Expresses support for the request by the secretary of the Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to declare a fisheries disaster in the state of Louisiana

Impact

The resolution aligns with the request for federal assistance and aims to activate federal disaster declarations that would provide necessary support to residents, businesses, and coastal communities affected by these disasters. It highlights the economic challenges faced by the fishing industry, which is still recovering from previous calamities that led to market distrust in Gulf seafood. As such, HCR102 represents a proactive measure to seek relief and assistance for an industry that is critical to the state's economy and cultural heritage.

Summary

HCR102, or House Concurrent Resolution 102, expresses the support of the Louisiana Legislature for a request made by the secretary of the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. This request seeks to have the U.S. Secretary of Commerce declare a fisheries disaster in Louisiana due to the adverse effects caused by Mississippi River flooding and the opening of the Morganza and Bonnet Carre spillways. The resolution emphasizes the long-standing struggles of the fishing industry in South Louisiana, impacted by a series of natural and man-made disasters, including multiple hurricanes and the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR102 is largely supportive, underscoring a unified effort by the Louisiana Legislature to advocate for the fishing community facing unprecedented hardships. Lawmakers recognize the vital role that fisheries play in the economy and seek to mobilize resources that could bolster recovery efforts. The resolution signifies a collaborative approach to addressing disasters that extend beyond local and state responsiveness, engaging federal entities for comprehensive support.

Contention

While HCR102 primarily reflects consensus support, there may be underlying concerns regarding the overall reliance on federal aid and its implications for local autonomy in managing disaster responses. The discussion underlines a critical balance that must be struck to ensure that while assistance is sought, local needs and viewpoints are adequately represented in the dialogue with federal authorities.