Some Louisiana lawmakers seem hellbent on driving jobs, investment and innovation straight into the arms of Texas and Mississippi.
The latest scheme? A moratorium on CO₂ pipelines, even while critical pipelines are being planned to support new project construction, meet emitter contractors and to connect to billions in low-carbon steel manufacturing and data center projects across the state.
It’s a clear message to energy developers and manufacturers: “Go elsewhere.”
These efforts threaten the long-term success of industries Louisiana relies on – including steel, chemicals, and refining – and send a dangerous signal that Louisiana is closed for business.
Let’s be clear: CCUS is not a land grab.
Louisiana law requires a public hearing process and a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity before construction can proceed. In the rare cases where voluntary agreements can’t be reached, the legal process ensures any easement is limited, fair, and in the public interest. Property owners are paid fair compensation, retain surface rights, and can continue to farm or use their land so long as it doesn’t interfere with pipeline operations.
These projects don’t just benefit landowners. They create good-paying jobs, generate local tax revenue, and keep Louisiana’s core industries competitive in global markets that are demanding low-carbon products.
We don’t need fear-driven policy in Baton Rouge. We need leadership that embraces growth, protects fairness, and keeps Louisiana in the game.
Joseph Orgeron is a Louisiana state representative from District 54
This article was originally published at www.thecentersquare.com
