Posted on February 16, 2021
NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – The head of the state coastal restoration program says a large part of funding could dry up under energy policies President Biden approved.
Some members of the state’s congressional delegation say they are prepared to pursue legal action.
The states coastal protection agency is involved in $21 billion worth of projects to restore and protect th Louisiana coast, with much of that money coming from an oil and gas industry that some blame for at least a portion of coastal land loss.
“If you’re looking to make climate policy to limit emissions and rebuild the coast you should look no further than Louisiana,” said Chip Kline with the Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority.
The head of the state coastal protection and restoration authority went before a joint natural resources committee of the legislature, to discuss the impacts of new policies restricting oil and gas leases and permits, as outlined in an executive order from President Biden. Biden has set a goal to have a clean energy economy with net zero emissions by 2050, but some say those efforts will kill royalty funds that pay for coastal protection projects.
“Last year’s coastal plan projects at least $389 million in go mesa funds over the next three years,” said Kline.
Those are oil royalty funds used to pay for coastal restoration projects that are expected to slowly dry up.
“There’s no doubt this knee caps our coastal restoration effort in Louisiana,” said Rep. Garrett Graves (R-La).
Supporters of the Biden plan say it’s the right move when it comes to slowing global warming, but opponents say it’s shortsighted.
“Oil and gas supports one in nine jobs in our state. Good jobs,” said Rep. Clay Higgins (R-La).
The royalties also support a coastal restoration effort that appeared to be paying dividends, when it comes to protecting the coast.
“You’re also going to pay more through FEMA reimbursement in the future,” said Graves.
“My office will pursue every legally available action and support legislation to protect American workers,” said Higgins.
President Biden has said there’s only nine years left to stop the worst consequences of climate change, and that’s why he has restricted oil and gas leases and permits. But opponents of his policy say we are still heavily reliant on oil and gas and if the American market is shut down people who need oil and gas will get it from other countries where environmental regulations are not as strong.
