House Bill No. by Representative Mack seeks to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding carbon dioxide sequestration in Louisiana. The bill introduces new definitions for "public water system" and "transmission pipeline," while establishing stricter requirements for the use of underground reservoirs for carbon dioxide storage. Notably, it mandates that the commissioner of conservation ensure that proposed storage facilities are not situated above mineral reservoirs capable of producing oil, gas, or other minerals without obtaining consent from mineral interest owners or confirming that all minerals have been extracted. The bill also imposes criminal penalties for non-compliance with reporting requirements, which can lead to fines of up to $25,000 per day or imprisonment for up to one year.

In addition to these provisions, the bill expands emergency preparedness protocols for carbon dioxide storage facilities and transmission pipelines, requiring operators to create comprehensive emergency response plans and community notification systems. It tightens siting restrictions for Class VI injection wells and transmission pipelines by increasing the setback distance from inhabited dwellings to one mile and necessitating advance notice to nearby residents and businesses about construction activities. The law also repeals previous groundwater monitoring requirements, replacing them with mandates for remediation plans and continuous monitoring of drinking water sources. Overall, the bill aims to bolster public safety and environmental protection in carbon dioxide sequestration operations.

Statutes affected:
HB353 Original: 30:1104(C)