Contact Congress about H.R. 7264: Restoring America’s Floodplains Act

USDA could restore and manage flood-prone easement land for the long term. Landowners could still use the land in some ways, if USDA finds those uses do not harm floodplain protection.

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Restoring America’s Floodplains Act is a House bill in committee. The latest recorded action: Referred to the Subcommittee on Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology.

Latest action on H.R. 7264: Referred to the Subcommittee on Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology.

Who this affects: This bill mainly affects landowners with floodplain easements and the local partners who help restore flood-prone land. It also affects states, Indian Tribes, and nonprofit groups that may work with USDA on floodplain and watershed projects. Communities near repeat flooding areas could see changes if USDA uses the new power for larger, longer-term restoration work.

Why this matters: Flood-prone places can face damage again and again, and this bill could move some work from short-term repair toward longer-term protection. It would let USDA restore natural floodplain functions that can help absorb water, support wildlife, and protect streams. It also gives USDA room to allow some land uses, which may make easement projects easier for landowners to accept. The actual results would depend on USDA choices, local land conditions, and funding that the bill text does not spell out.

Key provisions in H.R. 7264

• USDA could restore more than just damaged land. The bill says the Agriculture Secretary may restore proper plant cover, water flow, and other natural functions on floodplain easement land in the Emergency Watershed Program.
• USDA could keep caring for restored floodplain land over time. The bill allows monitoring, upkeep, and improvements, not only one-time repair work.
• USDA could work directly with landowners. The bill clearly lets the Agriculture Secretary sign contracts with them for restoration and maintenance.
• USDA could bring in local and outside partners. The bill lets the Secretary make agreements with states, Indian Tribes, and nongovernmental organizations to help restore and manage the land.
• Landowners could still use easement land in some ways. USDA could allow hunting, fishing, managed timber harvest, water management, or occasional haying or grazing if the use supports long-term floodplain protection.

How Modern Action helps you take action on H.R. 7264

You do not have to start with a blank letter. Modern Action turns the bill, your position, and the relevant congressional context into a message you can edit and send. The goal is to make contacting Congress clear, specific, and useful without forcing you to parse bill text or figure out the right office on your own.

Questions people ask about H.R. 7264

What is H.R. 7264?

USDA could restore and manage flood-prone easement land for the long term. Landowners could still use the land in some ways, if USDA finds those uses do not harm floodplain protection.

How do I support or oppose H.R. 7264?

Choose support, oppose, or ask for changes on Modern Action. The action flow drafts the message for you and keeps the wording tied to this bill.

Who should I contact about H.R. 7264?

Modern Action uses your location to route the action to the congressional offices relevant to the bill and your representation.

Can Modern Action explain H.R. 7264 before I act?

Yes. Modern Action gives you a plain-English summary, current status, and action context before you send anything.