This bill amends several sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes concerning the Department of Energy and Natural Resources, introducing new offices and responsibilities to enhance the management and conservation of the state's natural resources. Key provisions include the establishment of the office of enforcement, the office of energy, and the office of land and water, which will oversee energy infrastructure, state water bottom management, and groundwater and surface water resources. Additionally, the bill creates the Louisiana Natural Resources Trust Authority to develop strategic plans for energy and natural resources projects and manage associated financial obligations. It also outlines the powers and duties of the secretary of energy and natural resources, including the authority to appoint advisory councils and represent the state in relevant matters.

The bill further establishes deputy secretaries for public safety services and corrections services, both appointed by the secretary and subject to Senate confirmation. The deputy secretary for public safety services will oversee various offices, including state police and legal affairs, while the office of the Louisiana oil spill coordinator has been removed from their supervision. The bill also repeals sections R.S. 36:408(I) and 409(C)(8) entirely, streamlining the department's operations. The effective date of the Act is set for July 1, 2024, unless vetoed by the governor and subsequently approved by the legislature.

Statutes affected:
HB810 Original: 36:351(B), 36:354(A)(15), 36:356(B), 36:357(B), 36:358(C), 36:359(B)(1), 36:401(C)(1), 36:405(A)(1), 36:408(I), 36:409(C)(8)
HB810 Engrossed: 36:351(B), 36:354(A)(15), 36:356(B), 36:357(B), 36:358(C), 36:359(B)(1), 36:401(C)(1), 36:405(A)(1), 36:408(I), 36:409(C)(8)
HB810 Reengrossed: 36:351(B), 36:354(A)(15), 36:356(B), 36:357(B), 36:358(C), 36:359(B)(1), 36:401(C)(1), 36:405(A)(1), 36:408(I), 36:409(C)(8)
HB810 Enrolled: 36:351(B), 36:354(A)(15), 36:356(B), 36:357(B), 36:358(C), 36:359(B)(1), 36:401(C)(1), 36:405(A)(1), 36:408(I), 36:409(C)(8)
HB810 Act 727: 36:351(B), 36:354(A)(15), 36:356(B), 36:357(B), 36:358(C), 36:359(B)(1), 36:401(C)(1), 36:405(A)(1), 36:408(I), 36:409(C)(8)