House Bill No. [insert bill number] authorizes the governing authority of Rapides Parish to determine the permitting of Class VI carbon dioxide injection wells, geologic sequestration of carbon dioxide, and pipelines transporting carbon dioxide within the parish. The bill enacts new provisions in R.S. 30:4(C)(17)(c), 1104(F), and 1104.3, which establish that the authority of the Department of Conservation and Energy to issue permits for these activities is subject to local option procedures. Specifically, if the parish governing authority adopts a resolution or ordinance prohibiting such activities, the Department cannot issue any permits or certificates for them, regardless of prior applications.

Additionally, the bill mandates that any resolution or ordinance passed by the Rapides Parish governing authority must be communicated to the Department, and such prohibitions will take effect immediately upon adoption. The local determinations made by the parish will supersede any conflicting state or local laws, ensuring that no prior agreements or applications can confer rights that contradict the parish's prohibitions. The bill is set to take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action.