H.469 is a bill introduced by Representatives Waszazak and Galfetti that focuses on enhancing flood response and resilience in Vermont. The bill mandates the Agency of Natural Resources to undertake various flood resiliency projects, which include creating floodways, selectively clearing debris from waterways, restoring flood-retaining systems, and promoting naturalization projects along riverbanks to mitigate erosion and improve the absorption of floodwaters.
Additionally, the bill proposes to grant the Agency the authority to expedite the permitting process for cost-effective flood mitigation solutions, thereby facilitating quicker project implementation and reducing associated costs. This legislative effort aims to strengthen the state's capacity to manage flood risks and enhance public safety through improved environmental practices.