Relating to Flood Resiliency Disbursements

HB 4018 amends current law to add state agencies and flood-prone communities, even if not low-income, to list of possible recipients, and remove requirement that nature-based flood resiliency measures be prioritized.

Sponsors: Roger Hanshaw, Sean Hornbuckle

ISSUES: Land & Wildlife

CWV Position: Supports

Position Statement: HB 4018 because it strengthens flood resilience by improving how funds are distributed for flood mitigation and recovery, helping communities reduce flood risks, protect water quality, and adapt to increasing extreme weather events.

• Supports flood prevention, not just cleanup: HB 4018 focuses on directing funds toward resilience and mitigation, helping communities reduce future flood damage rather than repeatedly paying for recovery.

• Protects water quality and ecosystems: Flood mitigation projects—such as stream restoration, floodplain reconnection, and green infrastructure—reduce erosion, sedimentation, and pollution in rivers and streams.

• Builds climate resilience: As flooding becomes more frequent and severe, smarter disbursement of resilience funds helps communities adapt to climate-driven impacts.

• Prioritizes community preparedness: Ensuring funds are available and effectively allocated helps local governments plan and implement projects that protect homes, infrastructure, and natural resources.

• Aligns with CWV’s water and climate priorities: Flooding is one of the most visible and costly impacts of climate change in West Virginia, directly affecting clean water, public safety, and community stability.

Status: Introduced January 15, 2026; referred to the Committee on Government Organization then Finance.