House Bill No. by Representative Jacob Landry aims to improve the remediation process for environmental damage caused by oilfield and exploration activities in Louisiana. The bill introduces new provisions under R.S. 30:29(N) and establishes a Subpart A of Part I of Title 30, which includes definitions and procedures for addressing such damage. A significant aspect of the bill is the creation of a review panel composed of three experts in environmental evaluation and remediation. This panel will resolve disputes between operators and landowners regarding contamination, develop evaluation and remediation plans, and ensure compliance with state regulations. The bill also stipulates that any lawsuits related to environmental damage filed on or after January 1, 2026, will adhere to these new provisions.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the operational procedures for the review panel, including evidence submission and plan drafting. It emphasizes the need for timely communication among operators, landowners, and the Department of Conservation and Energy, while providing immunity for panel members and participants. The legislation mandates that several state agencies, such as the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality and the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, review the remediation plans for compliance with their laws, offering comments and cost estimates for implementation oversight. The bill also clarifies that there will be no suspensive appeal of the final regulatory plans, directing any appeals to the Division of Administrative Law and subsequently to the First Circuit Court of Appeals.