By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would require the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs to review existing flood risk mapping resources in the state and assess the need for and feasibility of creating additional flood risk mapping resources to identify areas vulnerable to current and future flooding across the state.

“Ignoring the long-term effects of climate change on our vulnerable communities while continuing to rely on traditional approaches like insurance and federal assistance is inadequate and inequitable,” said amendment sponsor Sen. Marc Pacheco (D-Taunton). “As damages from flooding become more frequent and costly, and our traditional options for addressing these issues become inadequate, we need a novel and equitable way to protect and relocate people and property.”

(A “Yes” vote is for the amendment.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes