Perhaps better data could have helped the state prepare for the storm, and legislation that passed the U.S. House Wednesday would provide that information.
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Mikie Sherrill, D-11th Dist., would provide new funding for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to conduct studies and collect data that take into account the impacts of climate change, and to help develop the best way to estimate precipitation.
“We are seeing very high volumes of precipitation that exceeds the frequency and patterns we have seen in the past,” Sherrill said. “Therefore, it is critical that decision makers such as flood plain managers, dam safety officials, civil engineers, local elected officials, first responders and others have the most accurate and up to date information to plan for these events. However, there is a gap in the information necessary to make these decisions.”
The vote was 333-81 with all of the no votes cast by Republicans, including both Reps. Jeff Van Drew, R-2nd Dist., and Chris Smith, R-4th Dist. All 10 House Democrats from New Jersey voted yes.
U.S. Sen. Cory Booker has introduced similar legislation in the House along with U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R- Miss.
President Joe Biden visited hard-hit parts of the state after Ida and approved an emergency declaration for all of New Jersey’s 21 counties, making state and local governments eligible for federal assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Homeowners and businesses in the state received $249 million in federal loans to help repair the damage. Another $228 million went for rebuilding homes and strengthening them against future storms and was targeted toward low- and moderate-income communities.
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Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him at @JDSalant.
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