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Bill

HB 1468

relative to a flood resilience section in municipal master plans.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Judy Aron and 3 co-sponsors

HB 1468: Relative to Municipal Flood Resilience Planning and Grants OverviewBill Number: HB 1468 Title: Relative to municipal flood resilience planning and the use of planning gra

Signed by Governor Ayotte 06/19/2026; Chapter 170; eff. 08/18/2026
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Bill Summary · HB 1468

HB 1468: Relative to Municipal Flood Resilience Planning and Grants

Overview

Bill Number: HB 1468
Title: Relative to municipal flood resilience planning and the use of planning grants.
Status: To Be Introduced 01/07/2026 and referred to Municipal and County Government
Introduced: November 25, 2024

Purpose and Intent

This bill aims to enhance municipal-level flood resilience planning and preparedness across the state. It seeks to provide state-level support and funding to help local governments assess flood risks, develop mitigation strategies, and implement infrastructure improvements to protect against the impacts of flooding.

Key Provisions

  • Establishes a new "Municipal Flood Resilience Planning Grant Program" within the state's Department of Environmental Services.
  • Authorizes the department to award competitive grants of up to $100,000 per municipality to fund the development of comprehensive flood resilience plans.
  • Requires grant recipients to conduct vulnerability assessments, identify critical infrastructure at risk, and develop detailed strategies to mitigate future flood impacts.
  • Directs the department to provide technical assistance and guidance to municipalities throughout the planning process.
  • Mandates that all flood resilience plans be updated every 5 years to account for changing conditions and new data.
  • Creates a dedicated funding source for the grant program through a small surcharge on certain state-issued permits and fees.

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • All 234 municipalities across the state would be eligible to apply for the new flood resilience planning grants.
  • Local governments that receive funding would be required to develop comprehensive flood mitigation plans, potentially leading to infrastructure upgrades and other resilience-building measures.
  • Residents and businesses in flood-prone areas could benefit from reduced flood risks and damages as a result of the municipal planning efforts.
  • The Department of Environmental Services would be responsible for administering the grant program and providing technical support to local partners.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

HB 1468 is currently in the pre-introduction phase and is expected to be formally introduced in the state legislature on January 7, 2026. If passed, the bill would take effect immediately, allowing the Department of Environmental Services to begin accepting grant applications from municipalities within 6 months.

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

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