House Bill No. by Representative Firment aims to amend and reenact R.S. 30:961 and enact R.S. 30:961(L) concerning cooperative endeavor agreements for the withdrawal of surface water in Louisiana. The bill emphasizes the legislative intent and findings regarding the importance of surface waters as vital natural resources for the state's economy, environment, and public safety. It introduces a sunset provision, stating that no new cooperative endeavor agreements can be entered into for applications received after December 31, 2026, while existing agreements may be renewed in two-year increments but must terminate by December 31, 2036.

Additionally, the bill requires the secretary to consider the potential introduction of invasive aquatic vegetation and wildlife species when forming agreements. It specifies the impacts of such species, including their management and potential eradication, on water flow, navigation, and ecological balance. The bill also mandates that all funds collected from the use or withdrawal of surface water be deposited into the Aquatic Plant Control Dedicated Fund Account, which is designated for the treatment of aquatic weeds, preferably in the water bodies from which the revenues were generated.

Statutes affected:
HB1209 Original: