Virginia House Bill HB1301

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/22
• Refer: 1/21/22
• Report Pass: 2/9/22
• Refer: 2/9/22
• Report Pass: 2/11/22
• Engrossed: 2/14/22
• Refer: 2/16/22

Caption

Clean Energy and Community Flood Preparedness Act; repeals Act.

Impact

This legislation is expected to have a significant impact on state laws by formalizing the funding mechanisms and responsibilities associated with flood prevention and community resilience projects. The establishment of the Virginia Community Flood Preparedness Fund means local governments will have access to resources necessary to conduct studies and implement projects that mitigate the impacts of flooding, particularly in recurrently affected areas. This change is likely to lead to improved infrastructure and preparedness against flooding while also addressing the needs of communities that are most vulnerable to such risks.

Summary

House Bill 1301, named the Clean Energy and Community Flood Preparedness Act, seeks to amend and reenact various sections of the Code of Virginia related to community flood preparedness and financing projects aimed at flood prevention. The bill establishes the Virginia Community Flood Preparedness Fund as a permanent fund, designed to enhance flood protection and coastal resilience through loans and grants. Funding will mainly come from revenue generated by emissions allowances and other appropriations, with an emphasis on supporting low-income geographic areas and community-scale hazard mitigation activities that utilize nature-based solutions.

Contention

However, discussions around HB 1301 may arise regarding the allocation of funds, particularly how priorities are established for disbursement and which projects receive financing. There may also be concerns about the efficiency of fund management and the potential delays in project implementations. Additionally, the section regarding public disclosure of electric generating facility closures could spark debates over the transparency of operations that could affect local communities. The requirement for public hearings and notices around facility closures aims to enhance community awareness and engagement, highlighting the importance of locality in decisions that affect local populations.