House Resolution No. by Representative Braud urges the Department of Conservation and Energy to conduct a comprehensive study on the state's liability for the decommissioning of orphan, inactive, and low-production oil and gas wells. The resolution highlights the increasing number of orphaned wells in Louisiana, which has reached approximately 6,500, with an estimated decommissioning cost exceeding $500 million. It emphasizes the inadequacy of current financial security measures and funding limitations that hinder the department's ability to address this growing issue. The resolution also points out the risks posed by wells that are now located in open water due to coastal erosion, which are significantly more expensive to plug.

The study requested by the resolution will include an analysis of the total costs associated with decommissioning orphaned wells, a breakdown of these costs by location and enforcement district, and an assessment of the financial responsibilities of current operators. Additionally, it will explore available funding sources to cover the state's expected liabilities and strategies to mitigate risks to taxpayers. The Department of Conservation and Energy is required to submit a written report of its findings to the House Committee on Natural Resources and Environment by March 1, 2027.