H.R. 4188: VA Flood Preparedness Act

This bill, known as the VA Flood Preparedness Act, proposes to enhance the ability of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to assist local authorities in mitigating flooding risks on properties that are adjacent to VA medical facilities. Here are the key points of the legislation:

Purpose of the Bill

The primary aim of the bill is to allow the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make financial contributions to local authorities specifically for the purpose of reducing the risk of flooding. This includes addressing flooding risks related to rising sea levels.

Amendment to Current Law

The bill seeks to amend Section 8108 of Title 38 of the United States Code. This amendment will formally include the mitigation of flooding risks as part of the authorized contributions that the VA can make. This change recognizes that flooding, including that which may be exacerbated by climate change and rising sea levels, poses a significant risk to properties near VA medical facilities.

Reporting Requirement

Within two years of the bill's enactment, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs is required to submit a report to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs for both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This report must include:

• The assessment of flooding risks at each VA medical facility, including those risks associated with rising sea levels.
• An evaluation of whether additional resources are necessary to effectively address these flooding risks at each facility.

Objectives

The overall objectives of the VA Flood Preparedness Act are to:

• Enhance the safety and accessibility of VA medical facilities by addressing flooding risks.
• Provide support to local authorities in their efforts to manage and reduce flooding impacts.
• Ensure that the VA is proactive in assessing and mitigating risks associated with climate change, particularly as they affect veteran healthcare facilities.

Relevant Companies

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