That's where HD. 771 and HD. 777 – refiled by Rep. Dawne Shand and Rep. Jennifer Balinsky Armini – come in.

HD. 771 would create a voluntary initiative to mitigate flood risks through the strategic acquisition of properties (from owners willing to sell) that are vulnerable to repetitive or substantial flood damage. Emphasizing nature-based solutions, the program would give priority to low-income residents and environmental justice communities.

HD. 777 would establish a commission to evaluate the feasibility of this voluntary program and analyze the benefits and drawbacks of such acquisitions to bolster resilience against future storms and floods.

These bills need support from as many legislators as possible to gain momentum at the State House, so ask your legislator to cosponsor HD. 771 and HD. 777.