Louisiana’s 2024 Regular Legislature session commenced on March 11, following two special sessions.
The first was dedicated to the intricate task of redrawing Louisiana’s congressional maps, setting the stage for a series of debates and negotiations that would shape the political landscape for years to come. The second aimed to fulfill Gov. Jeff Landry’s campaign promise to tackle crime head-on, underscoring the urgency felt across the state to address pressing societal issues. Just when you thought the legislators couldn’t look more fatigued, it looks like the governor and the legislature will convene in August for a constitutional convention.
Numerous issues were discussed during the March session, with key items directed toward matters beneficial to the petrochemical industry, namely carbon capture, community air monitoring and legal reform. As Louisiana’s petrochemical manufacturers set their sights on net-zero emission targets by 2050, the imperative to adopt innovative technologies became increasingly apparent. For instance, industry is embracing CCUS technology. This involves capturing carbon emissions, blending them with a saline solution and storing them underground. This proven technology was threatened by legislation that either outright banned the use of CCUS or limited its deployment through burdensome state and local regulations. The industry rallied against these challenges, successfully defeating such bills while advocating for a conducive regulatory framework favorable to the widespread adoption of CCUS technology throughout Louisiana.
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On the environmental front, President Joe Biden’s signing of the Inflation Recovery Act in 2022 allocated substantial funds for environmental justice causes, including community air monitoring programs. To ensure data accuracy, the chemical industry proposed legislation encouraging adherence to EPA and Louisiana DEQ standards for monitoring organizations. By advocating for science-based discussions and data accuracy, industry leaders sought to foster a climate of transparency and accountability, laying the groundwork for meaningful progress in environmental stewardship.
There is a sense of anticipation for change with hopes for a streamlined constitution and reallocation of previously protected funds to address budgetary needs more equitably.
Additionally, the insurance crisis has impacted various sectors across Louisiana. Property, casualty and commercial carrier insurance premiums skyrocketed to unprecedented heights, straining the financial resources of individuals and businesses alike. Legislative efforts, supported by the Louisiana Commissioner of Insurance, focused on alleviating pressure on property insurance rates and introduced reforms to curb high insurance costs and attract more insurers to the market. From curbing lawsuit abuse to fostering a more competitive insurance marketplace, lawmakers sought innovative solutions to mitigate the impact of the crisis and pave the way for a more equitable future.
With the recent conclusion of the regular legislative session on June 3, legislators face scrutiny or praise for their efforts, with the prospect of a constitutional convention looming. There is a sense of anticipation for change, with hopes for a streamlined constitution and reallocation of previously protected funds to address budgetary needs more equitably. Looking ahead to the fiscal session in 2025, the legislature aims for budgetary adjustments aligned with current circumstances and the vision of the new governor.
For more information, visit lca.org or email info@lca.org.
