In a case of first impression, the U.S. 5th Circuit recently held that the Louisiana Oilfield Anti-Indemnity Act (LOAIA) does not contain a universal well requirement.

Louisiana is only one of four states that has passed an oilfield anti-indemnity act. Enacted in 1981, the LOAIA renders “null, void and unenforceable” certain indemnification provisions in “agreement[s]

Since the announcement by Helis Oil & Gas that it intended to introduce hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) to St. Tammany Parish, the local response has been vitriolic to stay the least – from public protests and interstate billboards to lawsuits. In fact, according to DNR officials, the large public hearing on Helis’ drilling permit application was