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New Senate bill would improve flood protection and resiliency

A bipartisan bill that’s been introduced into the US Senate would provide farmers and ranchers a seat at the table to help mitigate future flooding disasters.  

The Flood Protection and Infrastructure Resilience Act would elevate long-term flood resilience as a priority for the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program, grant the Secretary of Agriculture authority to provide an increased federal cost share for EWP grants, and prioritize flood protection in the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP).

Nebraska Senator Pete Ricketts helped introduced the bill and says it removes red tape and helps rural communities recover quicker from natural disasters.

The American Flood Coalition Action says the bill is a proactive solution that strengthens ag communities and empowers farmers to lead innovative flood solutions.

The National Corn Growers Association says the legislation would help maintain and upgrade vital levee systems and aid in preventing future flooding disasters.

The American Farm Bureau Federation says the bill helps reduce the impact of flooding and improves watershed for US producers.

Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) also introduced the bill.