Louisiana House Bill HR149

Louisiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/17/22
• Refer: 5/18/22
• Report Pass: 5/23/22
• Passed: 5/26/22

Caption

Urge and requests the Amite River Basin Commission to study tidal surge flood protection and erosion on Lake Maurepas' Livingston Parish shoreline and the effects of dredging of the Amite River

Impact

HR149 is positioned as a proactive approach by Louisiana's government to enhance community and regional resilience against flooding. By calling on the Amite River Basin Commission and the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to collaborate on this study, the resolution reflects a commitment to thorough data collection and coordinated efforts in flood risk management. The findings of the study are anticipated to inform future strategies for mitigating flooding in Livingston Parish, addressing concerns rooted in hydraulic and hydrological connections between various regions.

Summary

House Resolution 149 (HR149) urges the Amite River Basin Commission to undertake a comprehensive study focused on tidal surge flood protection and erosion affecting the Livingston Parish shoreline on Lake Maurepas. The resolution highlights the need for evaluating the cumulative impact of existing flood control measures such as levees and pumps in surrounding parishes, which may inadvertently influence flood risk and water management within Livingston Parish. The initiative underscores the interconnectedness of watershed management, asserting that decisions in one area can have substantial effects elsewhere in the region.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR149 is predominantly supportive as it seeks to address pressing concerns related to flooding and erosion within the state. Legislators have expressed a collaborative outlook on flood management, recognizing the necessity for comprehensive studies to guide effective policy decisions. This resolution area likely sees favorable sentiments from representatives advocating for environmental sustainability and community safety, aligning with broader goals for safe and risk-adaptive regional development.

Contention

While the overall response to HR149 is supportive, potential contention may arise regarding the scope of the study and the methodologies employed. There may be concerns from stakeholders about the accountability of findings and whether the study will effectively coordinate with other ongoing efforts to avoid duplication. Additionally, discussions around prioritizing flood protection versus environmental impacts of flood control measures could surface as the study progresses and its implications become clearer.