Louisiana Senate Bill SCR96

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/21/11
• Passed: 6/21/11
• Engrossed: 6/21/11

Caption

Requests the Governor's Office of Coastal Activities and the office of coastal protection and restoration to support the establishment of a state seashore and the restoration of the habitat of Elmer's Island, Fourchon Beach, and Caminada Headland, as recompense for damages to natural resources caused by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, and requests that such recompense be taken under consideration by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in developing the programmatic environment impact statement for the national resources damage assessment.

Impact

The bill is framed as a crucial step toward reclaiming and restoring Louisiana's coastal regions that suffered from extensive environmental damage. The establishment of a state seashore would enable the development of policies that ensure the protection and sustainable management of these areas. The restoration efforts called for in SCR96 are aligned with broader goals to revive the biodiversity and public enjoyment of these unique coastal habitats, thereby demonstrating the state's commitment to addressing the consequences of environmental calamities.

Summary

SCR96 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that urges the Governor's Office of Coastal Activities and the Office of Coastal Protection and Restoration in Louisiana to promote the establishment of a state seashore and to support the restoration of Elmer's Island, Fourchon Beach, and the Caminada Headlands. This initiative seeks recompense for the natural resource damages caused by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, one of the most significant environmental disasters in United States history, which heavily impacted Louisiana's coastal systems and ecosystems.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SCR96 appears to be largely supportive, especially among environmental advocates and local communities who have been vocal about the need for restoration and protection of vital coastal areas. The resolution received unanimous approval in the Senate, reflecting a bipartisan agreement on the necessity to address the damages incurred from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. However, some contention may arise regarding funding sources and the long-term management of these areas, particularly as they may involve limitations on development and resource use.

Contention

While the resolution itself does not impose direct regulations, its implications for state law will revolve around the methods employed for habitat restoration and public access management. There may be potential conflicts between development interests and conservation efforts, particularly concerning the acquisition of lands for the Elmer's Island Wildlife Refuge. Another point of contention could be how the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration will incorporate the state's requests into the programmatic environmental impact statement regarding the natural resources damage assessment. The diverse interests at play underscore the complexities involved in restoring these invaluable coastal ecosystems.