Sims Bill Expanding Access to Hazard Mitigation Fund Passes

Mar 23, 2023
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Rep. Lonnie Sims, R-Jenks, has secured passage of legislation expanding opportunities for federal hazard mitigation funding.

House Bill 1928 eliminates the Flood Hazard Mitigation Account and replaces it with the Hazard Mitigation Financial Assistance Fund, which Sims said broadens the scope of what the fund can be used for and what federal grants can be received.

"Oklahoma faces numerous natural disaster threats every year, and increasing access to hazard mitigation funds is critical to reducing vulnerabilities, protecting lives and fostering greater resilience against future threats to our infrastructure and property," Sims said.

Since the historic Arkansas River flooding in May 2019, Sims, a former mayor who now chairs the House County and Municipal Government Committee, has worked on several pieces of legislation to improve hazard mitigation.

The measure itself does not direct revenues to or from the fund.

HB1928 passed the House 89-2 on Wednesday and now moves to the Senate, where it is authored by Sen. Dave Rader, R-Tulsa.

Oklahoma House of Representatives seal