House Bill No. [insert number] authorizes parish governing authorities in Louisiana to determine whether Class VI carbon dioxide injection wells may be permitted within their respective parishes. The bill enacts new provisions under R.S. 30:1104(G) and 1104.3, allowing local governing bodies to either pass a resolution or ordinance to permit or prohibit these wells, or to hold a parish-wide election if requested by at least 15% of the qualified electors. The election process must adhere to the Louisiana Election Code, and the results will dictate whether Class VI wells can be permitted in the parish. If a majority votes against permitting the wells, no permits will be issued, and the operation of such wells will be prohibited.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that if there is a conflict between a resolution or ordinance passed by the parish governing authority and the results of an election, the election results will take precedence. The governing authority is required to notify the Department of Energy and Natural Resources of any resolutions, ordinances, or election results. Importantly, the bill limits the frequency of elections on this matter to once every five years, ensuring that decisions regarding Class VI wells are made with community input while also providing a structured process for local governance.