The bill establishes enhanced public safety and accountability measures for carbon dioxide sequestration in Louisiana. It amends existing laws to increase civil penalties for violations related to carbon dioxide storage, raising the maximum penalty from five thousand to two hundred thousand dollars per day for each violation. Additionally, it introduces new reporting requirements for owners or operators of Class VI wells, mandating that they report any equipment malfunctions or releases of stored carbon dioxide within 24 hours. The reports must include specific details such as the incident's location, description, potential risks, immediate mitigation steps, and a timeline for corrective action.

Furthermore, the bill imposes criminal penalties for willful or knowing failures to comply with the reporting requirements, with fines of up to twenty-five thousand dollars per day and possible imprisonment for up to one year. It also requires that reports be disclosed to emergency response teams, local law enforcement, and the public within 48 hours of an incident. The legislation aims to enhance transparency and accountability in carbon dioxide sequestration practices, ensuring that potential risks to public health and safety are promptly addressed.

Statutes affected:
HB691 Original: 30:1106(D)(1), 30:1(C)
HB691 Engrossed: 30:1106(D)(1), 30:1(C)
HB691 Reengrossed: 30:1106(D)(1), 30:1(C)