Louisiana task force must study carbon storage’s effects on drilling

The Task Force on Advanced Drilling must study carbon dioxide storage’s effects and may recommend rules or legislation. The study covers mineral rights—rights to underground resources—and oil and gas operations, including wells used for disposal. Recommended study topics include how drilling works through storage sites, added costs, existing rules, and existing ways to compensate mineral owners. Any recommendations or legislative proposals must go in a written report to the legislature and the David R. Poynter Legislative Research Library. Any recommendations or proposals must be submitted by March 1, 2027.

The resolution assigns task force seats to House committee, state agency, university, and industry representatives. Louisiana State University’s Energy Institute provides staff. Seats include representatives of Louisiana’s Department of Conservation and Energy, Louisiana State University’s Energy Institute, independent oil and gas operators, and oil, gas, and chemical industry associations. The House natural resources committee chairman may add members. Meetings and records must follow Louisiana’s public access laws. A majority of members must be present to conduct business, and official actions require approval from a majority of all members. Members receive no task force pay, except daily allowances or expense reimbursements they already qualify for through their own organizations. Member names were due by July 31, 2026, and the first meeting was required by October 1, 2026. The task force ends when it finishes its work or on April 1, 2027, whichever comes first.