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HB 396

ENERGY: Declares that carbon dioxide sequestration in Louisiana is illegal (OR DECREASE SD RV See Note)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Danny McCormick

HB 396 would ban carbon dioxide sequestration in Louisiana, potentially restricting both engineered carbon capture technology and natural carbon storage processes.

Read by title, under the rules, referred to the Committee on Natural Resources and Environment.
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Bill Summary · HB 396

Legislative bill overview

HB 396 would declare carbon dioxide sequestration activities illegal in Louisiana. Carbon sequestration refers to processes that capture and store CO2 either naturally (in soil, forests, wetlands) or through engineered methods (direct air capture, geological storage). The bill appears to broadly prohibit these practices within the state.

Why is this important

Louisiana has significant natural carbon sinks (coastal wetlands, forests) and is positioned as a potential hub for industrial carbon capture and storage technology. A sequestration ban could affect climate change mitigation efforts, economic development in emerging clean tech industries, and existing natural ecosystem functions. It may also conflict with federal climate initiatives and private sector investments in carbon management.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's language is unclear whether it targets only engineered sequestration, natural processes, or both—creating enforcement and interpretation challenges
  • Economic impact: Louisiana has natural gas and petrochemical industries that could benefit from carbon capture technologies; a ban could limit competitive advantages and job creation in emerging sectors
  • Natural ecosystem effects: If interpreted broadly, it could restrict or criminalize naturally occurring carbon storage in wetlands, forests, and soils that already exist
  • Federal-state conflict: May conflict with federal climate and energy policies, potentially affecting federal funding or regulatory authority
  • Vague legislative intent: The "(OR DECREASE SD RV See Note)" notation suggests unclear drafting or competing versions of the bill's purpose

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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