Senate OK'S $90 Million Flood Relief Program

The State Senate gave final legislative approval Monday to a bill that would provide $90 million in aid to homeowners, businesses and local communities impacted by the record spring flooding along Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River and other swollen waterways.

The bill (S.6783), cosponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie, creates the “Great Lakes Flood Recovery and Mitigation Relief Act” and would provide grants up to $100,000 for homes and businesses impacted by damaging floodwaters.

In addition, the bill gives local governments and school districts special permission to cut property tax bills for affected property owners. That provision was modeled on separate legislation introduced by Senator Ritchie, which previously was approved by the Senate.

“The dangerous, record-high water levels in Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River have caused major problems for property owners and communities all across our region, and this legislation will bring major relief,” said Senator Ritchie.  “This legislation will allow those impacted by these record flood waters to have access to the necessary resources to bounce back from this devastating blow from Mother Nature.”

The flood relief bill is modeled on similar legislation that was enacted in the wake of Superstorms Irene and Lee in 2011 to help property owners cope with widespread damage.

This is the latest effort by Senator Ritchie to assist those impacted by flooding.  Recently, another measure she cosponsors (S.5902), which accelerates the availability of emergency funding for water infrastructure, was signed into law by the Governor.

The bill will be sent to the Governor for his approval.