Mass. House Approves Climate Bill; Bill Goes to Governor’s Desk Next (Press Release)

Legislation Includes Key Language Requiring Flood Risk Mapping 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 14, 2024
Contact: Carly Sherman
Phone: 617-540-5650 X 1074
Email: csherman@crwa.org

BOSTON — The Massachusetts House approved a climate bill today including clean energy siting provisions. The bill also includes language supported by Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) to develop flood risk mapping across the Commonwealth. The specific language is below:

Section 125 of S. 2967: The secretary of energy and environmental affairs shall review existing flood risk mapping resources and assess the need for and feasibility of creating additional flood risk mapping resources to identify areas vulnerable to current and future flooding across the commonwealth. The secretary shall develop recommendations, including any legislation or funding necessary, to support any additional required flood risk mapping resources and shall submit its recommendations to the joint committee on environment and natural resources, the climate chief, the house and senate committees on ways and means and the clerks of the senate and house of representatives not later than 6 months after the effective date of this act. The recommendations shall also be made available to the public on the website of the executive office of energy and environmental affairs.

CRWA worked with its watershed communities to create the Charles River Flood Model, which provides updated data on where and when flooding is likely to occur in the Charles River watershed. This legislation will enable other areas of Massachusetts to also have access to accurate flood risk information. This new measure will improve the identification of areas most at risk of flooding, a critical step in protecting Massachusetts residents—particularly those in Environmental Justice communities—from inland flooding. By passing this provision, the state is acknowledging that current FEMA flood maps are outdated and fail to accurately reflect the regions most vulnerable to current and future flooding risks. 

“Right now, our cities and towns are flying blind when it comes to protecting people and property from flooding; because too often we are relying on FEMA flood maps which are decades out of date and not getting updated,” said Emily Norton, CRWA Executive Director. “We applaud state legislators for taking this important step to map flood-prone areas, not only on our coasts but inland, so that residents and political leaders can be making more informed decisions about development and the built environment.”

“We are already witnessing heavier rainfall, lingering storms, and flooding that overwhelms our communities,”  said Cabell Eames, CRWA Advocacy Director. “What once were rare, 100-year storms now hit us with alarming regularity, threatening the lives and livelihoods of Bay Staters. I commend the legislature for recognizing the urgency of this crisis, prioritizing the expansion of flood risk mapping, and committing to concrete, actionable steps that will ultimately protect our future, homes, and most vulnerable neighbors.”

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Charles River Watershed Association’s mission is to protect, restore, and enhance the Charles River and its watershed through science, advocacy, and the law. CRWA develops science-based strategies to increase resilience, protect public health, and promote environmental equity as we confront a changing climate.