Office of Conservation

VOTE BY APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE MAKES STABLE FUNDING STREAM FOR COAST CLOSER TO REALITY

Baton Rouge – A stable revenue source to fund the Wetlands Conservation and Restoration Fund is one step closer to reality today with the unanimous vote of approval by members of the Louisiana House Appropriations Committee to free up annually two percent of the state’s net mineral income, plus $5 million, to be used for coastal restoration.

Until now, even small changes in oil and gas revenues could cause large variations in the annual contributions to the fund, making it difficult and even impossible, for the state to match federal dollars for coastal restoration and management projects.

Representative Reggie Dupre of Houma, who introduced House Bill 1081, said, “I’m delighted the committee gave the bill a unanimous vote and put it on the consent calendar. It’s the most important bill this session for coastal parishes. This dedication will allow the State to do long term planning of coastal projects and to leverage federal dollars well into the future.”

According to Louisiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Secretary Jack Caldwell, the committee’s action comes at the right time. Secretary Caldwell said, “The bill would go into effect July 1, 2000 to fund the coastal restoration program for fiscal year, 2000/2001. Because of the drop in oil prices, it will not be possible next year to fund coastal restoration activities from the current Wetlands Fund without a General Fund supplement. This vote is important for us to continue efforts to save the state’s valuable ecosystem.

“In the event of a fiscal crisis, a majority vote of each House could suspend the dedication just as the legislature does for the sales tax on food and drugs. This allows the decision makers some flexibility in the state budget, but puts Louisiana on record with its support of coastal restoration matters,” Caldwell said. “Governor Foster strongly supports passage of the bill and continues to make the coast a top priority.”

According to Secretary Caldwell, passage of House Bill 1081 would allow Louisiana to leverage state matching funds of about $18 million into as much as $80 million with federal Breaux Act funding.

Editors: For more information, contact DNR Public Information at 225-342-4844 or 342-8944.