Advocating for Public Comment in Louisiana’s Regulatory Process. Together we have one strong voice!
As a U.S. Senator for Louisiana, I will advocate for public comment in regulatory process, particularly the CCS project. I also support zoning/land-use regulations and local control over the Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP).
For instance, the Air Products’ CCS project beneath Lake Maurepas plans to inject 5 million metric tons of CO2 annually. The public strongly opposes it, but public comments are ignored. The community is concerned about potential environmental damage to the lake and Maurepas Swamp. Additionally, there are safety risks from leaks and pipeline ruptures near homes.
Presently, the $4.5 billion “blue hydrogen” complex in Ascension Parish is in the permitting phase, with an estimated start date of 2028-2029. Community advocates are calling for a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Additionally, lawsuits challenge state agency approvals for the pipeline and storage agreements.
This controversy highlights the tension between Louisiana’s energy investments and our demand for environmental safety. It also emphasizes our role in land-use decisions.
New projects must start construction before December 31, 2027, to qualify for the hydrogen production tax credit (Section 45V). This shortens the original 2033 deadline. This change, now under Senate consideration, impacts billions in planned investments.
The DRAFT Clean Hydrogen Task Force Report is ready for review. Public comment period ended Friday, November 7, 2025. Comments were submitted to TechAsmt@la.gov. Short deadlines hinder meaningful public feedback on complex and controversial projects.
Advocating for Public Comment in Regulatory Process. Together we have one strong voice!
A Citizen’s Guide to Providing Public Comment in Louisiana
Surprisingly, Louisiana state agencies and the Legislature value your feedback! Here is how you can join in the state’s decision-making process, from new rules to permits and legislation.
Where and How to Comment
| Agency/Body | Focus Area | How to Comment |
| Louisiana Dept. of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) | Proposed permits, rules, and environmental issues. | LDEQ posts notices on its Public Notice Page (and sometimes in newspapers). You can add comments online, via email, or by mail. Public hearings are held for verbal comments, which are recorded. |
| Louisiana Dept. of Health (LDH) | Medicaid policy updates and provider manual changes. | Check their dedicated web page for what is presently open for public comment. |
| Louisiana Legislature (House/Senate) | Bills and proposed legislation during committee meetings. | Sign up to speak at public hearings using “witness cards.” |
| Formal Rule Making Process | Official state rules being adopted. | Offer your feedback during the formal rule making process when rules are published in the Louisiana Register. |
| Governor’s Office | Specific gubernatorial initiatives. | The Governor’s office is lacking in direct feedback on their own programs. |
| Dept. Conservation and Energy | Explore and recommend strategic actions that support the development of a clean hydrogen economy in Louisiana. | Clean Hydrogen Task Force Report Draft Call For Comments TechAsmt@la.gov |
Advocating for Public Comment in Louisiana’s Regulatory Process
How to Find Opportunities to Comment
State-Wide Notices: The Louisiana Public Notices website provides a repository for public notices from various governing bodies across the state.
Agency Websites: Check specific state agency websites for their dedicated public comment or public notice sections.
Governor’s Office: The Governor’s office also solicits comments on specific initiatives or executive orders.
Federal Comments
Additionally, you can visit the Federal Register for Federal comments on Production of Clean Hydrogen and Energy Credit.
Advocating for Public Comment in Louisiana’s Regulatory Process. Together we have one strong voice!
In 2023, Air Products announced a long-term commitment to the Lake Maurepas community. They shared the progress they’ve made since that time. On its website, Air Products stated a commitment to the safety and health of its workers. It also states a commitment to the health, well-being and livelihood of the communities where it operates. Here is the link to the video announcement.
Nevertheless, Air Products is involved in several lawsuits. A recent one was filed by an environmental group against Louisiana agencies about a proposed CO2 pipeline. Another lawsuit was filed from a former employee alleging wrongful termination. The company is also facing a class-action lawsuit over allegedly arbitrary surcharges. Also, it is facing a lawsuit from the General Services Administration (GSA) about the Federal Helium System auction. Additionally, a lawsuit against the company was filed by another business about a renewable fuel refinery project.
If I have your vote, and you’re curious to learn more about my strategies as a U.S. Senator for Louisiana, visit my About Page. Also, check out the Important Issues page for invaluable information about issues that are important to you.
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