ALEXANDRIA, La. (July 5, 2025) – State Representatives Mike Johnson and Jason Dewitt are voicing strong support for property rights and local control amid growing tensions over carbon capture projects in Central Louisiana.
In a July 3rd Facebook post, Johnson outlined plans for two bills addressing carbon capture and property rights. His proposals come after public meetings in Pineville and Allen Parish where residents questioned the safety of storing CO₂ underground and its potential impact on drinking water.
Adding to the conversation, on today, Rep. Jason Dewitt posted a statement emphasizing his opposition to eminent domain for carbon capture projects. “I do not support the use of eminent domain for carbon capture projects – period. Property rights must be protected,” Dewitt wrote.
Dewitt, a current first responder and former DEQ employee, added, “Local communities should have a voice, and we should keep the door open to a statewide solution that works for everyone.”
Community Meetings Spotlight Local Fears
During forums at Pineville High School and Philadelphia Baptist Church, residents raised concerns about the Alexandria drinking water supply. Some questioned whether CO₂ storage could threaten aquifers supplying the city and nearby areas.
While questions mount, officials from Alexandria including the Mayor’s Office, City Council, and Rapides Parish jurors representing the city have remained publicly silent.
Proposed Legislative Actions
Johnson’s first bill would ban eminent domain for CCS projects statewide, with no exceptions. His second would give parishes the right to vote on whether such projects proceed locally.
Dewitt echoed similar themes but stressed balance. “Louisiana needs strong industry and job growth,” he said. “But we need to bring industry to the table and find a path forward that respects landowners.”
A Broader Push for Transparency
Both lawmakers’ comments come as ExxonMobil sues Allen Parish over its ordinance requiring local permits for CCS wells. The lawsuit underscores the growing tension between state-approved projects and parish-level efforts to regulate them.
For many residents, these legislative efforts represent a chance to have their voices heard in shaping projects that could affect their communities for generations.
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