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H 1051

An Act to create a commission to determine the feasibility of voluntary acquisition of flood risk properties and structures

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jenny Armini and 6 co-sponsors

Massachusetts creates commission to study feasibility of state-funded voluntary program to purchase flood-risk properties from willing homeowners.

Reporting date extended to Wednesday, December 31, 2025
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Bill Summary · H 1051

Legislative bill overview

H 1051 establishes a commission to study the feasibility of implementing a voluntary program for the state to acquire properties and structures in Massachusetts that are at high risk of flooding. The commission would examine the legal, financial, and practical aspects of such a program before making recommendations to the legislature.

Why is this important

As flooding becomes more frequent and severe due to climate change and sea-level rise, flood-damaged properties create ongoing costs for homeowners, insurers, and municipalities. A voluntary acquisition program could help relocate residents from high-risk areas, reduce future disaster expenses, and allow land to return to natural flood plains, though it requires significant public funding and careful planning.

Potential points of contention

  • Costs and funding: Creating a state acquisition program could require substantial taxpayer funding; unclear how the state would finance purchases or whether federal matching funds would be available
  • Property valuation disputes: Determining fair market prices for flood-risk properties could spark conflicts between the state and property owners over what constitutes adequate compensation
  • Voluntary vs. mandatory concerns: While framed as voluntary, some may worry about pressure on vulnerable homeowners to sell, while others may oppose using public funds to bail out property owners who knowingly bought in risky areas
  • Scope and prioritization: Unclear which properties qualify or how the state would prioritize acquisitions across different flood-risk levels and geographic regions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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