07/02/2024

Louisiana Chemical Association Comments on Governor Jeff Landry’s Press Conference at Denka

Media Contact:
Hisa Turner
(225) 376-7656
hisa@lca.org

Louisiana Chemical Association Comments on Governor Jeff Landry’s Press Conference at Denka

BATON ROUGE – July 2, 2024 - Today, Greg Bowser, President and CEO of the Louisiana Chemical Association (LCA), made the following statement following Governor Jeff Landry's press conference regarding the EPA’s recent rule against Denka.

“We are pleased with the steps Governor Jeff Landry and Attorney General Liz Murrill are taking to defend Louisiana’s vital chemical industry and protect high-paying jobs in our community. The closure of Denka would have a catastrophic effect on the local economy, affecting suppliers, vendors, and numerous businesses dependent on the plant’s operations. The loss of the plant would greatly reduce the tax revenue it generates, significantly impacting public services and community development projects in the parish.

While we fully support measures to protect the health and safety of our communities, the EPA’s ruling imposes an unrealistic and immediate deadline that threatens to dismantle a critical part of Louisiana industry. This untenable deadline for compliance is particularly surprising and misplaced given Denka’s past willingness to work with the EPA to significantly reduce emissions. Since 2015, Denka has reduced its emissions by an incredible 90% and it continues to work to further reduce emissions.

LCA will continue our work with Governor Landry’s administration to find and implement practical solutions that protect both our community's health and our vital industry in the state.”

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About the Louisiana Chemical Association

The Louisiana Chemical Association (LCA) was formed in 1959 to promote a positive business climate for chemical manufacturing that ensures long-term economic growth for its 70 member companies that operate more than 100 sites throughout Louisiana.

LCA, Louisiana Chemical Industry Alliance and related organizations work to protect and expand Louisiana’s petrochemical manufacturing base. The industry must have a unified voice in state governmental activities because legislative and regulatory actions can affect capital investment and job retention and growth.

LCA is governed by a Board of Directors that consists of 17 member company representatives, primarily plant managers and divisional vice presidents. LCA has an experienced staff with expertise in the chemical industry, environmental, health, safety, security, governmental affairs, communications and association management.