Energy (Pipeline Infrastructure)

This bill establishes new safety regulations in Louisiana for the transport and underground storage of carbon dioxide. It directly affects companies that build pipelines to move carbon dioxide or inject it into deep geological formations for sequestration. The law sets specific rules for how these facilities must be designed, constructed, operated, and monitored to prevent leaks and protect groundwater. Key requirements include detailed site planning, regular reporting, financial security to cover cleanup costs, and strict procedures for closing and maintaining sites after use. Additionally, the bill mandates public awareness efforts and emergency preparedness plans for facilities located near populated areas or waterways.

This bill requires operators of hazardous liquid pipelines in Louisiana to display their emergency contact information on all pipeline signage and line markers. Operators must certify annually that this contact information is accurate and that the provided telephone number is active and manned at all times. The legislation prohibits waivers of these requirements and establishes penalties for non-compliance, including existing fines under R.S. 30:705. These changes directly affect pipeline companies operating in the state and aim to improve emergency response capabilities.

HB 731 clarifies that pipeline operators in Louisiana cannot be held to "implied obligations" beyond what is explicitly written in their contracts with landowners. It defines key terms like "pipeline" (covering natural gas, oil, and other substances) and "pipeline operator," then states that standard property law duties for pipeline access rights do not apply unless specified in the contract. This directly affects landowners who may have relied on implied legal duties and pipeline companies seeking to limit their liability. The bill applies retroactively to all unresolved disputes, ensuring existing claims are governed by this contractual limitation.