COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING COMMITTEE

SUPPORTING THE FINAL REPORT OF THE
NATIONAL DROUGHT POLICY COMMISSION

WHEREAS, while local communities often suffer serious economic and environmental losses from severe droughts, there has been no coordinated federal strategy to respond to such emergencies;

WHEREAS, Congress established the National Drought Policy Commission (NDPC) in 1998, to be comprised of federal, state, local (including a representative of the U.S. Conference of Mayors), tribal, and private entities, with instructions to study "the creation of an integrated, coordinated federal policy designed to prepare for and respond to serious drought emergencies."

WHEREAS, the NDPC presented its Final Report to Congress on May 16, 2000 with the following recommendations:

• Urge Congress to provide incentives to states, local governments, tribes, and regional entities to encourage the development of comprehensive drought preparedness plans;

• Forge closer ties among the federal government and scientists so that the best data with regard to modeling, predictions, and applied research is available;

• Develop and incorporate comprehensive insurance and financial strategies into drought preparedness plans;

• Maintain a safety net of emergency relief that emphasizes sound stewardship of natural resources and self-help, and

• Coordinate federal drought programs and response with the creation of a National Drought Council, comprised of membership similar to that of the NDPC.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that The U.S. Conference of Mayors supports the Final Report of the National Drought Policy Commission and pledges to assist in the implementation of its recommendations.