Update: The CAMP budget amendment ended up being withdrawn, but there are still other avenues through which we will be working to get CAMP passed. Thanks to everyone who took action, and stay tuned for future updates!
Original post: Addressing climate change requires a dual approach of preparing for its impacts and reducing emissions. To date, Massachusetts policymakers have focused more on reducing emissions, providing national leadership on the promotion of energy efficiency and renewables.
Mass Audubon is now asking the Legislature to provide leadership on preparedness in the face of climate change impacts like rising sea levels and increased flooding, as Massachusetts lacks an integrated approach to enhance safety, reduce risks, and protect our infrastructure.
Hurricane Sandy hitting the coast of Hull, MA. Photo credit: Aislinn Dewey
Please ask your state Representative today to cosponsor Representative Smizik’s amendment establishing a Comprehensive Adaptation Management Plan (CAMP) in response to climate change. The amendment is to bill H.4377.
Rep. Smizik’s amendment to H.4377 would require the Commonwealth to:
- Establish sound management practices that take into account existing natural, built and economic characteristics of the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable areas and human populations
- Document the preparedness and vulnerabilities in our emergency response, energy, transportation, and other systems
- Establish a regional grant program to provide financial assistance to regional planning agencies for the development and implementation of CAMP
- Establish a coastal buyback program to acquire by voluntary purchase properties severely and repeatedly damaged by weather
No costs are associated with this amendment; state operational, capital and federal funds are already available to carry out this plan.
We are on a tight time frame – the House will be voting on H.4377 and its amendments tomorrow afternoon. Please contact your Representative today and urge them to support Rep. Smizik’s climate preparedness amendment. Thank you for your advocacy!