Unfortunately, but not surprisingly, Louisiana moved up a spot from last year, ranking as the fourth-worst Judicial Hellhole in the U.S. The report highlights the worst local courts and states for abuses of the civil justice system, with the top 10 Judicial Hellholes filled with widespread civil lawsuits, legislative loopholes that create more ways for lawyers to sue, and judges who allow junk science into evidence in trials. Judicial Hellholes have civil justice climates that allow abuse and starkly contrast the rest of the nation. Judicial Hellholes swing open the door for trial lawyers to sue for more money over more issues.

“This legislation would have stimulated some critically needed economic activity in our state, and while it did not pass we remain hopeful and optimistic,” Mike Moncla, Interim President of the Louisiana Oil & Gas Association said. “We believe Gov. Edwards gave strong consideration to the merits of the issue, and it is our job over the next few months to illustrate to the governor, the Department of Natural Resources, and key legislators why this bill is so important. We look forward to that opportunity.”

It’s just days before election day, and we find ourselves at a crossroads. It is impossible to overstate how much potential this current moment holds for Louisiana’s oil and gas industry, and how devastating the wrong decisions could be.

This is a narrow amendment that allows, but does not mandate, a fairer methodology for assessors. This is what most other producing states do. Failure to pass Amendment 2 would keep Louisiana in a difficult, if not impossible posture, ensuring continued troubles for parishes and operators.