House Bill No. 987 proposes to realign energy-related programs in Louisiana by relocating the Louisiana Geological Survey under the Louisiana State University (LSU) Energy Institute. The bill amends R.S. 17:1492 to specify that the Geological Survey will be part of the Energy Institute and outlines its responsibilities, which include maintaining geological surveys, coordinating with various state departments, and managing geological data. The previous requirement for the Geological Survey to cooperate with other state entities has been removed, and specific coordination responsibilities with the office of technology services, the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and the Department of Conservation and Energy have been added.

Additionally, the bill amends R.S. 36:358 to change references from the Center for Energy Studies to the Energy Institute, ensuring that the office of state resources works collaboratively with the Energy Institute on geological and energy data. The bill also allows for the use of cooperative endeavor agreements to implement its provisions. The act will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action if not signed.

Statutes affected:
HB987 Original: 36:358(E)(2)
HB987 Engrossed: 36:358(E)(2)