House Committee OKs Resolution Urging Federal Government To Recognize Importance Of Flood-Resilient Infrastructure

On Wednesday, the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee unanimously approved and reported out House Resolution 1112 (Barrar-R-Delaware) calling on federal government to recognize the importance of durable, flood-resilient infrastructure (sponsor summary)

“I believe it is important for the federal government to recognize the impact that rising population changes have on our infrastructure along with land use patterns and severe weather,” said Rep. Stephen Barrar (R-Delaware).

Pennsylvania's numerous rivers and creeks make it one of the most flood-prone states in the nation. Flooding in this Commonwealth is the single greatest cause of property loss due to natural disasters

Between 2000 and 2015, 20 Federal disasters and emergencies were declared for floods, hurricanes and severe storms in Pennsylvania that exceeded $750 million in total assistance from the United States Government

Over 250 elected officials from across the U.S. signed a Statement of Principles supporting Resilient Infrastructure that will reduce risk and meet our economic, environmental, and social needs.

The resolution asks the federal government to strongly consider the following when addressing infrastructure priorities in the coming year--

-- Improve resiliency requirements for buildings and infrastructure systems built before and after flood-related catastrophes;

-- Enhance the use of natural defenses in planning and preparedness; and

-- Reduce unsustainable development in high-risk areas.

The resolution now goes to the full House for action.

Rep. Stephen Barrar (R-Delaware) serves as Majority Chair of the Committee, and can be contacted by calling 717-783-3038 or by sending email to: sbarrar@pahousegop.com. Rep. Chris Sainato (D-Lawrence) serves as Minority Chair and can be contacted by calling 717- 772-2436 or by sending email to: csainato@pahouse.net.

(Photo: Flooding in Bloomsburg, Columbia County in 2011.)
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