Representative Jessica Domingue Calls for Facts Over Fear in Carbon Capture Debate
As the Louisiana legislative session moves into its second week, carbon capture has emerged as one of the most debated topics at the State Capitol. State Representative Jessica Domingue of Terrebonne Parish says much of the public conversation is driven by misinformation rather than science or policy facts.
Domingue recently wrote an op-ed outlining her position on carbon capture and carbon sequestration, arguing that the issue deserves a clearer, fact-based discussion.
From Skeptic to Researcher
Domingue said she initially approached the issue with skepticism. When she first encountered legislation on carbon sequestration, she had little background in the subject and questioned whether proposed policies aligned with existing municipal law.
As a former parish council chair and licensed clinical social worker, she focused on how proposed legislation would work in practice.
After voting against several early bills because they raised legal concerns, Domingue said the reaction surprised her. She received intense backlash and even death threats, prompting her to study the issue more closely.
Over the past year, she said she has researched the topic extensively, meeting with scientists, industry experts, and energy professionals.
Addressing Concerns About Eminent Domain
One of the biggest fears among opponents involves eminent domain and the belief that companies could seize private land for carbon storage projects.
Domingue argues that Louisiana law provides strong protections for property owners.
She pointed to legislation passed last year that requires 85 percent of landowners within a porous storage unit to approve a project before it can move forward. The law also includes strict groundwater monitoring requirements.
Domingue said historical data shows eminent domain is rarely used in Terrebonne Parish. According to parish records, it has been used only five times in the past 50 years, mostly for government infrastructure projects rather than private industry.
Carbon Capture and Louisiana’s Economy
Domingue also framed carbon capture as a global market issue rather than a climate debate.
She said international buyers, particularly in the European Union, increasingly demand carbon-neutral energy products, including liquefied natural gas. If Louisiana producers cannot meet those standards, those customers may turn to competitors like China or Russia.
Domingue estimates that about $100 billion in potential investment in Louisiana is tied to carbon-neutral production, affecting industries ranging from LNG and petrochemicals to timber and agriculture.
She said the goal during the legislative session should be to focus on science and economic realities rather than social media narratives.