CHAPTER 11-A COORDINATED USE OF RESOURCES FOR

RECREATION, ECONOMY, NAVIGATION, AND

TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY

§2351. Coordinated Use of Resources for Recreation, Economy, Navigation, and Transportation Authority; purpose and intent

            A. The Coordinated Use of Resources for Recreation, Economy, Navigation, and Transportation Authority, referred to in this Chapter as the "authority", is hereby established as the single coordinating entity responsible for the prioritization, planning, and funding of projects related to flood control, risk reduction, navigation, and water resource management in all areas of the state not included within the coastal area as defined in R.S. 49:214.2.

            B. The legislature declares that it is the public policy of the state to develop and implement, on a comprehensive and coordinated basis, an integrated plan that shall support and integrate the development and implementation of policies and initiatives for flood protection, infrastructure planning, and economic development in the upland area. Consistent with this goal, it is the policy of this state to achieve a proper balance between development and conservation and encourage the use of state resources in responsible economic development of the area. The authority shall implement the policy within these areas ensuring the efficient and coordinated management of water resources within its jurisdiction, addressing issues related to water quantity, flood risk mitigation, navigation, economic development, and recreation. It shall be the policy of the state within these areas that through the comprehensive and coordinated efforts and acting in accordance with the provisions of this Chapter, the authority shall exercise all powers necessary to plan, develop, and implement projects and programs consistent with the legislative intent expressed in this Chapter.

            C.(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of state or federal law, the authority is established, authorized, and empowered to carry out all functions necessary to serve as the single entity responsible to act as the local sponsor for construction, operation, and maintenance of all projects approved by the board in areas under its jurisdiction.

            (2) Nothing in this Chapter shall impair, amend, supersede, or nullify the authority of any political subdivision, port, navigation district, or levee district designated as a local sponsor pursuant to an act of Congress, a federal authorization, or a cooperative agreement with the United States Army Corps of Engineers.

            Acts 2025, No. 418, §1.