DEPARTMENT REORGANIZATION 

 

The Departmental Review for Innovation and Visionary Enhancement (DRIVE) Initiative, authorized under Executive Order JML 24-13 by Governor Jeff Landry, represents a transformative and ambitious step forward in Louisiana’s approach to natural resource management. This initiative seeks to modernize, optimize, and align the Department of Energy and Natural Resources (DENR), creating a framework that is both sustainable and adaptable to the complex challenges of managing Louisiana’s critical resources.

 

 
Prefiled Bills

Senate Bill NO. 193 – Department Reorganization

Author: Sen. Hensgens

This proposed law renames the department to the Department of Conservation and Energy and replaces the position of commissioner with a secretary, appointed by the governor, and establishes new offices within the department, including the offices of permitting and compliance, enforcement, and state resources.

 

Senate Bill NO. 97 – CURRENT

Authors: Sen. Pressly and Sen. Bass 

This proposed law creates the Coordinated Use of Resources for Recreation, Economy, Navigation, and Transportation (CURRENT) Authority as the primary entity responsible for integrated flood control, risk reduction, navigation, water resource management, and infrastructure projects specifically within the upland areas of the state, excluding areas under the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority.

 

House Bill NO. 634 – SOAP

Author: Rep. Landry

This proposed law provides a process for remediation of oilfield and exploration and production sites and a saltwater and oil assessment process (SOAP), which will apply to suits filed on or after January 1, 2026, replacing the present law process.

 

House Bill No. 605 – Expedited Processing Fee

Author: Rep. Riser

This proposed law requires the department to charge an expedited processing fee in addition to any fees provided by law or regulation when an applicant is granted a request for expedited processing.

 

Stakeholder Letters

Helpful Links

 

 

Core Principles

 

 

 Transparency

 

 

Administrative Flexibility Through Transparent Oversight

  • Strengthen open communication and public engagement across all levels of governance.
  • Foster a culture of clarity and accountability in budget reporting, performance metrics, and policy decisions.
  • Maintain flexibility by streamlining processes and adapting quickly to new data, while ensuring stakeholder trust through rigorous oversight.

 

 Balance


Strategic and Responsible Resource Management for Revenue Generation

  • Emphasize a sustainable approach to resource utilization that supports both economic growth and environmental stewardship.
  • Align budgeting and policy decisions with long-term revenue goals, ensuring stability and resilience.
  • Encourage interagency collaboration to optimize resource management and share best practices statewide.

 

 Solutions 

 

Intuitive Tools for Practical Outcomes

  • Implement user-friendly technologies that enhance efficiency and improve internal processes.
  • Provide clear, outcome-focused guidance and support to staff, partners, and the public.
  • Drive continuous improvement by measuring and refining the practicality and effectiveness of each tool or initiative.

 

 

  

Feedback

Please send written comments to tyler.gray@la.gov or dnrinfo@la.gov.