The legislative intent behind HB595 is to promote proactive measures in response to ongoing climate change effects and increasing flood risks. By enabling municipalities to establish flood resilience investment funds, the bill facilitates the collection of fees from property owners located in designated flood resilience zones. Funds raised can help finance improvements for specific properties, thus enhancing community safety and reducing future flood-related damages. Furthermore, the statewide analysis funded by the bill will assess the costs and benefits of flood risk mitigation, assisting policymakers in the allocation of resources and prioritization of high-risk areas.
Summary
House Bill 595 aims to establish coastal resilience zones in New Hampshire, focusing on enhancing flood resilience projects through new funding and tax incentives. The bill expands existing property-assessed clean energy (C-PACE and R-PACE) funding mechanisms to include flood resiliency improvements, such as structural modifications to reduce flood damage and other mitigation strategies. Additionally, it allows municipalities to offer property tax abatements or freezes for property owners engaging in these flood resilience projects, thereby incentivizing community investment in infrastructure improvements that can safeguard against flooding.
Sentiment
The general sentiment around HB595 appears to be supportive among those focused on climate action and disaster preparedness. Advocates view it as a significant step towards safeguarding vulnerable properties against floods while fostering local economies. Conversely, some legislators and stakeholders may express concerns over the financial burden on property owners due to new assessments, raising questions about the sustainability of such funding mechanisms in the long run. This dichotomy highlights the ongoing debate between immediate climate adaptation needs and potential economic strains on constituents.
Contention
Notable points of contention around HB595 include concerns regarding the implications of the flood resilience fee and potential inequities in funding responsibilities among property owners. The efficacy of the proposed tax abatement system also invites scrutiny; while it aims to reduce tax burdens temporarily, critics argue that it may lead to increased financial obligations in the future. As municipalities implement the bill, questions will likely arise about the management of collected fees, the distribution of funds for improvements, and the true impact on local property markets.
Establishing a committee to study the civilian clean energy, community resilience, and conservation corps, and establishing a committee to study the child protection act.
Relating to the creation of the Cameron County Flood Control District; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes and to issue bonds.