Louisiana Senate Bill SCR43

Louisiana 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/29/13
• Refer: 4/30/13

Caption

Requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority in conjunction with the Department of Natural Resources to document the costs of complying with Section 404 of the Clean Water Act in public infrastructure projects in the state of Louisiana.

Impact

The impact of SCR43 is aimed at enhancing cooperation between state agencies to better assess the financial implications of regulatory compliance under the Clean Water Act. By documenting these costs, the resolution seeks to identify potential areas for regulatory reform that could facilitate more efficient infrastructure development while still safeguarding Louisiana's vital coastal ecosystems. The authority of the CPRA in conjunction with the DNR is crucial, as they play instrumental roles in both environmental management and infrastructure planning in the state.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 43, introduced by Senator Mills, requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA) along with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to document the costs of complying with Section 404 of the Clean Water Act related to public infrastructure projects in Louisiana. This resolution highlights the challenges faced by the state in preserving its coastline and wetlands while also meeting federal regulatory requirements for projects that involve dredging, filling, or discharging into federal waters. It underscores the intricate balance that needs to be managed between environmental protection and infrastructural development on a state level.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SCR43 is primarily focused on the pragmatism of regulatory compliance versus the state's environmental goals. Proponents of the resolution view it as a necessary step toward alleviating some of the financial burdens placed on local governments and agencies due to stringent federal regulations. Opponents, however, may argue that such cost documentation could potentially lead to weakened environmental protections if viewed primarily through a financial lens without considering ecological impacts.

Contention

A notable point of contention exists around the implications of documenting the costs associated with the Clean Water Act's Section 404 compliance. While it is intended to aid in understanding the financial impacts of federal regulations on local projects, there is concern that it could lead to arguments for reducing necessary environmental protections. Stakeholders may question whether the ultimate goal is to enhance the efficacy of infrastructure projects or to pave the way for reduced oversight and accountability in environmental conservation efforts.