House Bill No. 1161, introduced by Representative Fontenot, authorizes the secretary of the Department of Transportation and Development to transfer specific state property located in Lafourche Parish to the city of Thibodaux. The bill includes detailed descriptions of the parcels of land being transferred, which consist of portions of Lot 145 and Lot 144 in the Town of Thibodaux, along with all associated buildings, improvements, and rights. Importantly, the bill stipulates that mineral rights will be reserved for the state, ensuring that the state retains ownership of any mineral resources beneath the property.
The bill also empowers the secretary to enter into necessary agreements and execute documents to facilitate the transfer, ensuring that the transaction reflects the appraised value of the property. The effective date of the bill is contingent upon the governor's signature or the expiration of the time for gubernatorial action. Additionally, the House Committee on Natural Resources and Environment adopted amendments to make technical changes and update the property description, enhancing the clarity and accuracy of the legislation.