Governor Spanberger Signs Bills to Build Climate Resilience in the Commonwealth

(WIDEWATER STATE PARK, VIRGINIA) - Yesterday legislators and partners joined Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger who ceremonially signed a series of environmental bills into law, aiming to build climate resilience and reduce environmental and weather-related impacts across the Commonwealth. 

“Virginia took a big step forward yesterday, demonstrating leadership and dedication to protecting communities from the impacts of climate change. We thank lawmakers for supporting important policies that harness the power of nature, uplift at-risk communities and build climate resilience,” said Emily Steinhilber, Virginia Director at Environmental Defense Fund (EDF).  

Among the bills signed, EDF experts directly supported House Bill 70, which improves the Resilient Virginia Revolving Loan Fund, a financing option that localities can access for flood resilience and mitigation funding. The new law directs Virginia’s Department of Conservation and Recreation to give additional weight to resilience projects in low-income communities when distributing funds, as well as prioritizing projects that incorporate nature-based solutions. 

Additionally, the Governor signed other legislation that EDF championed this year including bills that support planning for marsh migration and provide pathways for resilience restoration projects.