This bill amends and reenacts several sections of Louisiana's Revised Statutes related to the leasing of state property for energy-related purposes, specifically under the authority of the State Mineral and Energy Board. Key changes include the expansion of the board's leasing authority to include not only minerals, oil, and gas but also alternative energy sources. The bill introduces new provisions regarding lease payments, classifying them as a tax for federal estate law purposes, and increases application fees from $400 to $600. It also establishes a maximum acreage limit for mineral leases at 5,000 acres, with specific provisions for wind and solar energy leases, and mandates that all leases include minimum royalty clauses and security interests.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for lease applications, inspections, and the opening of bids, while also detailing the requirements for transfers and assignments of leases. It specifies that all parties involved in lease transfers must be registered with the office of mineral resources. The legislation also includes provisions for the distribution of revenues collected from operating agreements and sets an effective date of January 1, 2025, for the new regulations. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the leasing process and enhance the state's ability to manage its energy resources effectively.

Statutes affected:
HB24 Original: 30:124(B), 30:126(A), 30:127(A), 30:128(A), 30:129(B)(3), 30:209(4)
HB24 Engrossed: 30:124(B), 30:126(A), 30:127(A), 30:128(A), 30:129(B)(3), 30:209(4)
HB24 Enrolled: 30:124(B), 30:126(A), 30:127(A), 30:128(A), 30:129(B)(3), 30:209(4)
HB24 Act 17: 30:124(B), 30:126(A), 30:127(A), 30:128(A), 30:129(B)(3), 30:209(4)