House Bill No. 601 aims to amend existing laws regarding carbon dioxide sequestration in Louisiana, specifically focusing on the expropriation authority of transporters of carbon dioxide for geologic storage. The bill requires that these transporters obtain written consent from at least 95% of the property owners within the proposed pipeline right-of-way before they can exercise eminent domain. Additionally, it prohibits foreign-owned entities from being considered expropriating authorities, thereby limiting the ability of non-U.S. entities to expropriate property for carbon dioxide sequestration purposes. The bill also mandates that transporters provide specific notice to property owners regarding their rights before any expropriation occurs.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the duties of the commissioner of conservation in issuing certificates of public convenience and necessity for carbon dioxide transporters. It stipulates that the commissioner must find that the project is in the public interest and that the 95% consent threshold has been met. The bill also requires the applicant to demonstrate that alternative routes were considered and deemed unfeasible, and it allows the commissioner to request additional information or modifications to the proposed right-of-way before issuing a certificate. Overall, the proposed legislation seeks to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding carbon dioxide sequestration while protecting the rights of property owners.

Statutes affected:
HB601 Original: 19:2(10), 30:1107(B)