House Bill No. [insert bill 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 prohibit these wells or to hold a parish-wide election if at least 15% of qualified electors petition for one. The election process must adhere to the Louisiana Election Code, and the results will dictate whether Class VI wells can be permitted. If a majority votes against the wells, no permits will be issued, and their operation will be prohibited in that parish.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that if there is a conflict between a resolution passed by the parish governing authority and the results of an election, the election results will take precedence. This ensures that once an election is held, the decision cannot be overridden by the governing authority for a period of five years. The parish governing authority is also required to notify the Department of Energy and Natural Resources of any resolutions, ordinances, or election results related to this matter. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action.