The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry (LABI) released the following statement on behalf of President and CEO Will Green in response to the verdict handed down Friday by a Plaquemines Parish jury.

“Louisiana’s oil and gas industry supports more than 250,000 jobs and contributes billions of dollars annually to our state’s economy, funding critical infrastructure, education and coastal restoration projects. This verdict – which should absolutely be appealed – not only threatens those economic benefits but also sends a chilling message to businesses across the country about the risks of operating in Louisiana.

“These baseless lawsuits jeopardize one of our state’s most vital industries, deterring investment and enticing companies to take their jobs and resources to more business-friendly states at a time when Louisiana should be doubling down on supporting the industries that serve as the backbone of our economy.

“Instead of fostering an environment where industry and government collaborate on real solutions, this decision paves the way for more frivolous lawsuits that undermine economic stability, hurt Louisiana families and only benefit lawyers. Our state’s leading investors in coastal restoration—those with both the expertise and financial resources to make a real impact—are now being driven away.

“As Louisiana’s statewide chamber of commerce, LABI will continue to fight for policies that protect our energy sector and ensure that environmental responsibility does not come at the expense of our state’s economy. We remain committed to a future where businesses can grow, workers have high-paying opportunities and our coast is protected through innovation and collaboration—not litigation.”

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