Bill
HD 777
Summary of HD 777: Commission on Voluntary Flood Risk Property Acquisition Bill OverviewThis proposed bill, HD 777: An Act to create a commission to determine the feasibility of vo
This proposed bill, HD 777: An Act to create a commission to determine the feasibility of voluntary acquisition of flood risk properties and structures, would establish a state commission to investigate the potential for a voluntary program to purchase properties and structures located in high-risk flood zones.
The main components of the bill include:
Creation of Commission: The bill would establish a 9-member commission to study the feasibility of a voluntary flood risk property acquisition program. The commission would include representatives from state and local government, as well as experts in disaster mitigation, real estate, and environmental policy.
Scope of Study: The commission would be tasked with examining the potential costs, benefits, and operational requirements of implementing a voluntary program to purchase flood-prone properties from willing landowners. This would include analyzing factors such as funding sources, property valuation methods, and long-term management of acquired lands.
Stakeholder Input: The commission would be required to solicit public input and feedback from impacted communities, the real estate industry, and other relevant stakeholders throughout its study process.
Reporting Requirement: The commission would have 18 months to complete its analysis and submit a comprehensive report to the state legislature. The report would outline the commission's findings on the feasibility and recommended design of a voluntary flood risk property acquisition program.
If enacted, this bill could pave the way for a new state initiative to proactively address flooding risks by providing a pathway for the voluntary relocation of residents and businesses out of high-risk areas. Successful implementation could reduce future disaster recovery costs, protect vulnerable populations, and open up land for more sustainable uses such as wetlands restoration or nature-based flood mitigation.
However, the ultimate impact would depend on the commission's findings and whether the legislature chooses to act on any recommendations provided in the final report. Careful consideration of funding sources, property owner incentives, and equitable program design would be critical to ensure the program's long-term viability and effectiveness.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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