Bill > A00133

This bill establishes a new Office of Flooding Prevention and Mitigation within the executive department to address the growing challenges of flooding in New York State. The office will be led by a director appointed by the governor and will have broad responsibilities including coordinating various state agencies and existing flood-related task forces, studying flooding issues, assisting local governments in developing flood prevention strategies, and serving as a clearinghouse for flooding information. Key functions include proactively engaging counties and municipalities, promoting flood mitigation strategies like living shorelines and infrastructure upgrades, developing intermunicipal agreements, and conducting regular assessments of flooding risks. The office is specifically mandated to consider the increasing likelihood of flooding due to climate change and is authorized to recommend actions that go beyond current best practices. Every three years, the office must submit a comprehensive report to the governor and legislature detailing flooding risks, mitigation strategies, potential funding sources, and recommendations for addressing flood-related challenges. The underlying legislative intent recognizes flooding as a significant and ongoing threat to people and property, and seeks to create a centralized, coordinated approach to flood prevention and mitigation.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A133