Bill > HR6256

This bill amends the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014 to create a new framework for ecosystem restoration projects in floodplains and flood-prone areas. Specifically, the bill defines an "ecosystem restoration project" as an effort to recover or enhance the natural functions of an aquatic resource or floodplain by manipulating its physical, chemical, or biological characteristics. The bill provides two key exemptions for such projects: first, requesters would not have to pay review or processing fees for flood insurance rate map changes related to ecosystem restoration, and second, communities may permit these projects within regulatory floodways even if they slightly increase base flood elevations, provided that a professional engineer determines the project will not significantly raise flood risks, no insurable structures or critical infrastructure would be adversely impacted, and the community submits an analysis of the project's effects within 180 days of completion. The bill also requires the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to issue implementation guidance within 180 days of enactment, after consulting with federal and state natural resource agencies, ensuring a collaborative approach to implementing these ecosystem restoration provisions.

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https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/6256/all-info