The Louisiana Senate Resolution urges the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promptly review and approve Louisiana's application for primacy in administering Class VI injection well permitting. This request is rooted in Louisiana's long history of effective regulation of its oil and gas industry, which has included significant innovations and the establishment of a regulatory framework for carbon capture and sequestration. The resolution highlights the state's expertise in evaluating permit applications due to its extensive experience with subsurface geology and its commitment to protecting water sources and the environment.
Furthermore, the resolution emphasizes the economic and strategic importance of Louisiana's energy sector, which supports hundreds of thousands of jobs and contributes significantly to the state's economy. It notes the potential for substantial capital investment and job creation associated with pending Class VI permit applications, as well as the state's role in national energy security. The resolution calls for collaboration between Louisiana officials and the EPA to ensure robust regulatory oversight of carbon capture projects, reinforcing Louisiana's position as a leader in energy innovation and sustainability.