The bill, HB 571, focuses on the regulation of carbon capture and sequestration in Louisiana, specifically addressing the certificates of public convenience and necessity for injection operations. It introduces several amendments, including a change in the time frame for storage facility operators to apply for a certificate of completion of injection operations from 10 years to 50 years after injection ceases. The bill also clarifies that compliance with the provisions of the chapter will not classify storage operators or carbon dioxide transporters as common carriers or public utilities, nor will it increase their tax liabilities. Additionally, it mandates that the governing authority of affected parishes be notified of completed applications for well permits and requires public hearings in each affected parish.

Furthermore, the bill establishes new requirements for environmental analyses as part of the application process for Class VI injection well permits, including assessments of potential adverse environmental effects and alternative project considerations. It also stipulates that owners or operators of Class VI injection wells must provide quarterly reports on various operational metrics and report any significant occurrences within 24 hours. The proposed law retains existing provisions regarding the Carbon Dioxide Geologic Storage Trust Fund while modifying the fee structure and expanding the purposes for which the fund can be used. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding carbon dioxide storage while ensuring environmental protections and community involvement.

Statutes affected:
HB571 Original: 30:209(4), 30:1109(A), 30:1110(C)
HB571 Engrossed: 30:209(4), 30:1105(A), 30:1109(A), 30:1110(C)
HB571 Reengrossed: 30:209(4), 30:1105(A), 30:1109(A), 30:1110(C)
HB571 Re-Reengrossed: 30:209(4), 30:1105(A), 30:1109(A), 30:1110(C)
HB571 Enrolled: 30:209(4), 30:1105(A), 30:1107(C), 30:1109(A), 30:1110(C)
HB571 Act : 30:209(4), 30:1105(A), 30:1107(C), 30:1109(A), 30:1110(C)