Davante Lewis

The Louisiana Public Service Commission is considering a rule requiring groups seeking to intervene in utility regulatory proceedings to disclose out-of-state funding sources. Environmental groups and some commissioners, including Davante Lewis, argue the rule could suppress debate, while proponents claim it aims to prevent foreign interference and ensure energy dominance. The proposal follows a report by The Pelican Institute alleging Louisiana-based advocacy groups receive out-of-state funds linked to anti-fossil fuel agendas.

The Louisiana Public Service Commission is considering a rule requiring groups to disclose out-of-state funding for interventions in utility regulatory proceedings, citing concerns about foreign interference and energy dominance. Critics, including Commissioner Davante Lewis, argue the rule could suppress debate on fossil fuels and data centers by limiting participation.

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry signed an executive order requiring new requirements for data centers to qualify for state tax exemptions, aiming to prevent utility ratepayers from subsidizing their energy costs while promoting rural economic growth. The order follows concerns about rising power plant costs linked to Meta’s Hyperion data center and Entergy Louisiana’s proposed $1.8 billion power plant purchase.

FEMA's interim administrator, Robert Fenton Jr., asserts the agency has sufficient resources with 20,000 employees, but local leaders express concerns over reduced staffing and leadership instability under the Trump administration. A coalition highlights departures of key personnel and delays in disaster response, citing recent floods in Texas as an example.