Memorializes the U.S. Congress to invest future supplemental funding in the communities of Lafitte, Barataria, and Crown Point
Impact
The passage of HCR20, if endorsed by Congress, could lead to significant changes in how federal funds are allocated to address flood risks in Louisiana. Jefferson Parish has been identified as facing extraordinary flooding risks—greater than 99% of counties across the nation—underscoring a critical need for enhanced federal support. This resolution not only seeks to ensure future funding but aims to address the long-term impacts of flooding, damage to infrastructure, and the socio-economic stability of affected communities.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 20 (HCR20) aims to memorialize the United States Congress to secure future supplemental funding specifically for the communities of Lafitte, Barataria, and Crown Point within Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. This resolution emphasizes the urgent need for investments aimed at flood protection and mitigation efforts in these areas, which are identified as experiencing severe flood risk, with certain properties facing a greater than twenty-six percent chance of flooding. Furthermore, it highlights the inadequacy of current federal funding efforts that have overlooked these specific communities despite their high-risk status.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR20 is predominantly positive, as it is viewed as a necessary step towards safeguarding communities vulnerable to flooding. Legislators and local leaders advocate for increased federal involvement to mitigate flood risks and protect residents' lives and properties. However, there may be underlying concerns about the sufficiency of federal response and the urgency with which these communities require support, as previous funding allocations have not addressed their needs.
Contention
While HCR20 is primarily a resolution of support, the underlying contention revolves around the urgency of federal action and the adequacy of responses to various local needs. There are concerns about whether Congress will act on this memorialization and include Lafitte, Barataria, and Crown Point in future funding initiatives. The resolution reflects both a call for immediate action and the need for long-term strategic investment in flood protection, with the risk that communities may continue to suffer if federal funding remains insufficient.
Urges and requests the United States Army Corps of Engineers to reconsider the mitigation and stewardship plan for the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion to include tidal levee protection for Lafitte, Barataria, and Crown Point
Requires the Lafitte, Crown Point, and Barataria levee projects to be completed prior to the completion of the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion project
Requires that mitigation monies associated with the funding for the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion integrated coastal protection project shall be allocated to the Lafitte Area Independent Levee District and used to complete levee improvements
Memorializes the United States Congress to invest in hurricane storm damage reduction, flood protection, and drainage infrastructure projects in the Amite River Basin