Louisiana Senate Bill SCR41

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/28/12
• Refer: 3/29/12
• Report Pass: 4/16/12
• Refer: 4/17/12
• Report Pass: 4/30/12
• Passed: 5/1/12
• Engrossed: 5/1/12
• Refer: 5/2/12
• Refer: 5/8/12
• Report Pass: 5/14/12
• Refer: 5/15/12
• Report Pass: 5/16/12

Caption

Approves the annual integrated coastal protection plan for Fiscal Year 2012-2013.

Impact

By approving SCR41, the legislature enables the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to implement the integrated coastal protection plan effectively. This includes the construction and management of projects that significantly impact the coastal ecosystem. The approval process requires that the plan be submitted to various legislative committees and that the legislature must explicitly approve the plan or fail to disapprove it to allow its implementation. This ensures that state efforts are closely monitored and aligned with both environmental needs and fiscal responsibilities.

Summary

SCR41 is a Louisiana Senate Concurrent Resolution that approves the annual integrated coastal protection plan for FY 2012-2013, adopted by the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority. This plan outlines the state's strategy for protecting, conserving, and restoring coastal areas through various projects, including the development of privately funded marsh management plans. The resolution is significant as it ensures the state's approach to coastal management is in alignment with the legislative requirements set forth in state law.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR41 is largely supportive, given the unanimous voting outcome in the House (94 yeas, 0 nays). This reflects a bipartisan recognition of the importance of coastal protection efforts, particularly in light of environmental challenges facing Louisiana's coast. The resolution received backing from a wide array of stakeholders who appreciate the necessity of preserving coastal ecosystems, which are vital not only for wildlife but also for the economic stability of the region.

Contention

Despite the unanimous approval, there could be underlying concerns regarding the adequacy of funding and the effectiveness of the proposed projects in the plan. Some stakeholders may be cautious about whether the funding will materialize as needed and whether the projects implemented will address the pressing issues of coastal erosion and habitat loss. There may also be questions about private sector involvement in marsh management and how it aligns with public interests and environmental protection goals.