House Resolution No. by Representative Owen urges the Board of Regents to conduct a thorough, peer-reviewed study on the potential impacts of mixing carbon dioxide streams captured from industrial sites and the atmosphere on Louisiana's water supply and ecological environment. This resolution highlights the need for a comprehensive risk analysis, particularly in areas designated for permanent carbon dioxide injection, due to concerns regarding public health, groundwater protection, and ecological safety. The study is expected to analyze the interactions of different carbon streams, assess the adequacy of current regulatory frameworks, and provide actionable recommendations for improvement.
The resolution outlines a timeline for reporting, requiring the Board of Regents to submit an initial report by January 1, 2027, an interim report by June 1, 2027, and a final comprehensive report by June 1, 2028. Additionally, the Board is tasked with notifying the House Committee on Natural Resources and Environment about participating institutions and the study's completion plan within 45 days of the resolution's adoption. The study aims to ensure that the potential risks associated with carbon dioxide injection are thoroughly understood and managed to protect Louisiana's natural resources.