Senate Bill No. 502, introduced by Senator Cathey, aims to regulate the storage of sugarcane bagasse biomass in Louisiana. The bill amends existing law by providing a clear definition of "sugarcane bagasse biomass," which includes the solid material left after extracting liquid from sugarcane stalks, and outlines the different types of biomass derived from both industrial and on-farm processes. Additionally, the bill introduces the term "traditional farm practices," which refers to accepted agricultural standards determined by the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry in collaboration with the LSU AgCenter.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits parish or municipal governing authorities from enacting or enforcing ordinances that would restrict the storage of sugarcane bagasse biomass, provided that such storage complies with an approved best management practice plan. This provision aims to protect agricultural operations from local regulations that could hinder their ability to store biomass effectively. The changes outlined in the bill will take effect on August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB502 Original: 3:3602(18)