Committee advances bill to raise DEQ permit fees, citing $55 million in five‑year revenue

House Bill 758, presented April 14 on behalf of Representative Brass and introduced in committee by Senator Bridal, would adjust industry permitting fees at the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality to better align with neighboring states. Senator Bridal told the committee DEQ "began to operate at a deficit starting in fiscal year 2022" and that the fee adjustment "will generate a total of nearly $55,000,000 over the next 5 years, with an average of $13,500,000 in additional funding for DEQ" beginning in fiscal years 2027–28.

DEQ officials voiced support. Under Secretary Theresa Delafos described the package as a comprehensive fee proposal to bring fees in line with operational costs and said DEQ collaborated with industry during development; Secretary Courtney Burdette also said she was present "in support of the vote."

Industry and trade representatives appeared in the room in support but did not take the podium. Senator Price moved to report the bill favorably; the committee recorded no opposition and House Bill 758 was reported favorably.