Environment

passed · Louisiana · House May 7, 2026

HB 1209: WATER/RESOURCES: Provides for the withdrawal of surface water

This bill amends existing laws regarding the withdrawal of surface water by updating specific dates and refining how environmental impacts are evaluated. It requires state officials to consider the effects of water projects on vegetation and wildlife, including their management and potential proliferation, when reviewing contracts or agreements. The text also includes minor adjustments to numbering and punctuation within the legislation to ensure clarity. These changes aim to strengthen the assessment process for water resource projects without altering the fundamental authority to withdraw water.

Topics ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill strengthens environmental protections by requiring state officials to evaluate impacts on vegetation and wildlife during water withdrawal reviews.85% confidence | Rep's Stance ✓ Voted Yes ✓ Supports Environment

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passed · Louisiana · House May 6, 2026

HB 1171: WILDLIFE/MGT AREAS: Authorizes the use of airboats in the Maurepas Swamp Wildlife Management Area

This bill authorizes the use of airboats in the Maurepas Swamp Wildlife Management Area while establishing specific rules to limit their impact. It restricts airboat operations to a window between March 1 and September 1 each year and confines them to existing pipeline and power line paths, sloughs, and designated pull boat runs. Additionally, the legislation requires any airboat engine to be equipped with a muffler or similar device to reduce noise pollution. These measures aim to balance recreational access with environmental protection within the designated wildlife area.

Topics ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill mandates noise reduction via mufflers and restricts operations to minimize habitat impact, balancing recreation with conservation.75% confidence | Rep's Stance ✓ Voted Yes ✓ Supports Environment

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passed · Louisiana · House May 6, 2026

HB 599: WATER/RESOURCES: Prohibits the sale of Louisiana running surface water outside of the state

HB 599 prohibits the sale of Louisiana's running surface water to entities outside the state. It directly affects businesses or entities seeking to purchase Louisiana water for use beyond Louisiana's borders. The bill enacts a new provision (R.S. 30:961(L)) banning such sales and repeals a prior section (R.S. 30:961(I)) that allowed the state secretary to approve cooperative agreements for out-of-state water withdrawals. This creates a clear policy change preventing the export of state-owned surface water for use outside Louisiana.

Topics ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill prohibits export of Louisiana's surface water, conserving natural resources within state per explicit language (R.S. 30:961(L))95% confidence | Rep's Stance ✓ Voted Yes ✓ Supports Environment

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signed · Louisiana · House May 5, 2026

HB 767: WILDLIFE/FEES: Authorizes recreational alligator hunting license and lottery fees

HB 767 would create a lottery system for Louisiana residents seeking recreational alligator hunting permits. It requires a $50 nonrefundable entry fee for the lottery, with successful applicants receiving harvest tags at no additional cost (the fee may apply toward a $25 annual resident license). All revenue from lottery fees and auctions would be directed to the state Conservation Fund. This bill specifically affects Louisiana residents who wish to hunt alligators recreationally under a new permit system, pending legislative approval.

Topics ✓ Budget & TaxesSupports Budget & TaxesDirects $50 lottery fees to Conservation Fund, funding a state program via user fees rather than taxes.95% confidence ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill directs lottery fees to Conservation Fund, funding wildlife management and conservation efforts per bill summary.85% confidence | Rep's Stance ✓ Voted Yes ✓ Supports Environment

in committee · Louisiana · House Apr 14, 2026

HB 855: FISHING/NETS: Establishes depth requirements for the commercial use of purse seines

HB 855 requires commercial fishing vessels using purse seines in Louisiana's saltwater areas to operate only in waters with a minimum depth of 22 feet. This rule directly affects commercial fishermen who use purse seines for catching fish like menhaden or tuna in coastal waters. The key provision amends Louisiana law to prohibit purse seine use in shallower waters, aiming to protect marine habitats or species in shallow zones. The bill does not specify enforcement details or exemptions beyond the depth requirement.

Topics ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill mandates minimum 22ft depth for purse seines to protect marine habitats in shallow zones, directly advancing conservation goals.95% confidence | Rep's Stance ✓ Voted Yes ✓ Supports Environment

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