Louisiana Senate Bill SCR4

Louisiana 2016 1st Special Session

• Introduced: 2/24/16
• Passed: 2/25/16
• Engrossed: 2/26/16

Caption

Memorializes Congress to extend Louisiana's seaward boundary in the Gulf of Mexico to three marine leagues.

Impact

By securing this extension, SCR4 aims to enhance Louisiana's powers and capacities in managing and protecting its coastal lands, waters, and natural resources effectively. The bill underscores that an extended boundary would allow the state to receive federal revenues derived from activities like gulf leasing and drilling, thus providing a much-needed financial resource to support ongoing coastal restoration efforts and hurricane protection initiatives. This measure is also seen as pivotal in addressing the critical issue of coastal erosion plaguing Louisiana, which loses significant areas of wetlands yearly, threatening both the environment and the local economy.

Summary

SCR4 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from Louisiana that memorializes Congress to extend the state's seaward boundary in the Gulf of Mexico to three marine leagues, representing a significant legislative move towards rectifying an economic and jurisdictional disparity. The bill highlights the historical context involving the United States Supreme Court ruling that set Louisiana's boundary at three geographical miles, as opposed to the three marine leagues afforded to states like Texas and Florida. This extension is presented as crucial not only for the state but also for the nation, given the ecological and economic importance of Louisiana's coastal regions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR4 appears to be largely supportive among legislators, as indicated by the unanimous vote of 33-0 to adopt the resolution. Proponents of the bill emphasize the necessity of rectifying the boundary issue that has historically disadvantaged Louisiana, spotlighting the value of its coastal ecosystems and their contribution to national interests. The resolution is framed within a broader narrative of economic development, community resilience, and environmental stewardship, garnering bipartisan backing.

Contention

While SCR4 itself may not exhibit overt contention, the overarching implications of its passage could raise debates about the balance of state versus federal powers concerning natural resource management. Critics of any potential amendments to the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA), which could affect funding for coastal protection, might view further actions arising from SCR4 with scrutiny. The resolution thus acts as both a practical request for boundary adjustment and a symbolic assertion of Louisiana's rights to its coastal resources, setting the stage for future discussions on environmental and economic policies.