HB 1354 - DIGEST

Finds that: (1) The prevention of flood damage to public and private property is a matter of public concern;

(2) Projects that prevent and minimize flood damage may be planned and approved in advance of the time that a flood occurs. However, there are also emergencies requiring immediate project approval; and

(3) Many projects designed to protect public and private property from flood damage are not approved due to conflicts with existing permitting and regulatory requirements.

Declares that a pilot program must be developed for projects in select water resource inventory areas to demonstrate and evaluate methods for authorizing flood control projects that protect public and private property, protect or enhance habitat, and protect fish life.