BATON ROUGE, LA - The Louisiana Senate Natural Resources Committee on April 8 endorsed a proposed fund aimed at providing financial assistance for local governments wishing to convert their fleets to natural gas fuel, Houma Today reported.

However, the proposed Alternative Fuel Vehicle Revolving Loan Fund Program currently lacks a source of funding. Some proponents are hoping it will eventually qualify for federal stimulus monies. Senate Bill 103, sponsored by senators Nick Gautreaux (D-Abbeville) and Mike Michot (R-Lafayette) seeks to establish the fund.

In related action last week, the Senate Transportation Committee approved Senate Concurrent Resolution 8 by Senator John R. Smith (D-Leesville). The resolution urges Congress to "support expansion and use of domestic natural gas and alternative energies, and urge agencies to operate vehicles using compressed natural gas."