Anti-trust charges tossed: A Texas Business Court judge dismissed Clean Hydrogen Works’ antitrust claims against ExxonMobil’s Denbury subsidiary, ruling Texas courts cannot address alleged antitrust injuries occurring outside the state. Clean Hydrogen Works alleges Exxon used its control of Denbury’s 620-mile carbon dioxide pipeline network to block a planned $7.5 billion clean-fuels project in Louisiana, while Exxon says it terminated the connection agreement because of project delays and contractual breaches. The dispute now shifts partly to Louisiana, with experts warning that limited carbon dioxide infrastructure could raise costs for clean-fuel developers and make Gulf Coast exports less competitive internationally. The Center Square has the full story.
Shipyard talent pipeline: Fletcher Technical Community College has received nearly $5 million from the Small Business Administration to provide workforce training and technical assistance to small manufacturers across six southeast Louisiana parishes. As one of 11 organizations nationwide selected for the SBA’s $50 million initiative, Fletcher will offer hands-on training in ship fitting, pipefitting, welding and marine electrical work. The program will also help small manufacturers strengthen business operations, pursue federal contracts and expand their capacity to compete and grow within the region’s shipbuilding supply chain. The Houma Times has the full story.
Longtime partner promoted: Randa Vernon has been selected as HoganTaylor’s next CEO and board chair, taking over from Randy Nail on Jan. 1, 2027. A longtime partner with more than 30 years of industry experience, Vernon has held key leadership roles at the firm and helped drive 117% revenue growth in its Assurance service area. Nail will remain CEO through the end of 2026 and continue advising the firm through 2027, focusing on strategic growth opportunities.
Ballooning debt
