Louisiana Senate Bill SB119

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/30/17
• Refer: 3/30/17
• Refer: 4/10/17
• Report Pass: 5/1/17
• Engrossed: 5/9/17
• Refer: 5/10/17
• Report Pass: 5/17/17
• Enrolled: 5/31/17
• Chaptered: 6/12/17
• Passed: 6/12/17

Caption

Authorizes a surface lease between Williams, Inc. and the state land office. (gov sig)

Impact

The passing of SB 119 emphasizes the state's emphasis on leveraging its land for economic benefit, thereby fostering business relationships that could lead to development and improvements within the region. By delineating clearly the boundaries and terms of the lease, it aims to provide clarity and security for both the state and Williams, Inc., expectedly leading to a more structured approach to land usage. This could set a precedent for future land leasing arrangements within the state, potentially impacting revenue generation and land management policies.

Summary

Senate Bill 119 is a legislative act authorized by Senator Ward that allows for the leasing of state-owned surface rights to Williams, Inc. for a specific parcel of land located in Iberville Parish, Louisiana. The bill outlines the terms of the lease, explicitly reserving mineral and timber rights, and delegates the discretion to the administrator of the state land office to negotiate additional terms deemed necessary for the state's best interest. This legislation represents a move to manage state land resources more effectively while providing economic opportunities for companies involved in land development.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB 119 is largely positive among business proponents who see it as a reasonable approach to land use that facilitates developmental projects. The local sentiment may vary, reflecting concerns about the prioritization of corporate interests over community needs, particularly in terms of land usage. While supporters are likely to underscore economic benefits, there are underlying tensions regarding the environmental implications and local governance that must be addressed as the bill progresses.

Contention

A notable point of contention arises around the exclusion of mineral and timber rights in the lease agreement. While the state maintains control over these resources, there may be implications for local communities relying on such resources for their economic livelihoods. Furthermore, community stakeholders and local governance bodies may feel sidelined in the decision-making process, leading to debates about land sovereignty and the commitment to sustainable development practices. The balance between economic development and community rights remains a crucial discussion point as SB 119 moves forward.