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Virginia lawmakers proposed major new investments in flood preparedness, environmental education and cleaner waterways as the House and Senate money committees released separate budget plans Sunday.
The proposals amend the spending plan previously introduced by Gov. Glenn Youngkin. A legislative conference committee must now reconcile the two versions before sending a final package to Youngkin for approval.
The Senate plan would add $50 million in general funds to the Community Flood Preparedness Fund, Virginia’s only program dedicated to climate-change adaptation. The fund helps communities prepare for flooding and rising sea levels.
The House proposal would provide $1 million annually for a statewide competitive environmental education grant program. Virginia currently spends about 30 cents per student on environmental education, compared with $2.78 in Maryland and 58 cents in Pennsylvania.
Both chambers also proposed substantial funding for the Stormwater Local Assistance Fund, which provides matching grants to localities for projects that limit polluted runoff from roofs, sidewalks and roads. The Senate recommended $40 million, while the House proposed $50 million.
Eligible projects can include stream restoration, rain gardens and other infrastructure improvements designed to keep pollutants out of rivers and streams.
The House plan would add another $48 million to fully fund wastewater treatment plant upgrades. It also includes $26 million for agricultural conservation practices in future years, such as keeping cattle out of streams and planting trees and grasses along waterways.
Jay Ford, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Virginia policy manager, said communities across Virginia are seeking help with extreme storms, flooding and pollution. He argued that investments in resilience and cleaner waterways could reduce public health and disaster-recovery costs while supporting tourism, quality of life and the state’s fisheries.
Ford said the proposals demonstrate a commitment to a more resilient Virginia by emphasizing climate preparedness, environmental education and protection of natural resources.