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SB 73

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL: Provides for sequestration of carbon dioxide. (8/1/25)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Beryl Amedée and 6 co-sponsors

Louisiana authorizes carbon dioxide sequestration projects to capture and permanently store CO2 underground, creating economic opportunity while raising environmental and property rights questions.

Signed by the Governor. Becomes Act No. 414.
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Bill Summary · SB 73

Legislative bill overview

SB 73 establishes a legal and regulatory framework in Louisiana for carbon dioxide sequestration—the capture and permanent storage of CO2, typically underground in geological formations. The bill became effective August 1, 2025, and was signed into law as Act No. 414. It provides the statutory foundation for what is commonly called "carbon capture and storage" (CCS) or "carbon sequestration" projects within the state.

Why is this important

Louisiana has significant geological advantages for CO2 storage, including depleted oil and gas fields and deep saline formations, making it a potential hub for carbon sequestration technology. This legislation enables the state to develop an emerging industry that could generate economic activity, create jobs, and attract investment in climate-related technology while allowing existing industrial facilities to reduce their carbon footprint. The timing aligns with federal incentives (like the 45Q tax credit) that make CCS projects more economically viable.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental and community concerns: Underground CO2 storage carries risks of leakage, groundwater contamination, and potential seismic activity, raising questions about long-term monitoring, liability allocation, and whether affected communities have adequate protection and input in project approval.
  • Property rights and land access: The framework likely addresses how companies can access private land for storage operations, which may create tensions between landowner rights and corporate development, particularly in rural areas with limited regulatory oversight history.
  • Industrial emissions accountability: Critics may argue the bill facilitates continued fossil fuel production and large-scale industrial emissions by making them "cleaner" rather than requiring actual emissions reductions at the source.

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

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