DEPARTMENT REORGANIZATION 

 

Louisiana’s Departmental Review for Innovation and Visionary Enhancement (DRIVE) Initiative was launched under Executive Order JML 2413 to modernize the state’s approach to natural resource governance. The initiative responded to declining oil production, a fragmented network of more than 450 boards and commissions and growing demands for resilient energy and water supply. DRIVE sets a course for an integrated Department of Conservation and Energy (C&E), aligning regulatory, fiscal and research structures with 21st-century realities while building on more than a century of conservation leadership. In June of 2024 and June 2025, the Louisiana Legislature codified the initiative through Act No. 727 and Act No. 458, respectively, which reorganizes the former Department of Energy and Natural Resources (DENR) into C&E and embeds many of the DRIVE reforms into statute.

 

 
Reorganization Bills

Gov. Jeff Landry signs SB44 into law.
Gov. Jeff Landry signs SB44 into law on June 24, 2025.
 

 

Senate Bill No. 244 / ACT No. 458: 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 / ACT NO. 138: 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. 605 / ACT No. 296: 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.

  

 

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.

 

 

   

Helpful Links