Task Force Presents Recommendations On Flood's Legal Issues

(Host) A special task force that focused on how to help property owners who were affected by Tropical Storm Irene has presented a series of recommendations to the Legislature.

The full Senate met in a special session this morning for a briefing from the task force.

Chris D'Elia of the Vermont Bankers Association helped outline the recommendations.

He tells lawmakers that discussions are already under way to revise a state law that helps homeowners avoid foreclosure on property that was seriously damaged or destroyed by the floods.

(D'Elia) "Those discussions are going to happen probably within the next week or two in the House Judiciary Committee to get it started."

(Host) The task force is also recommending that the Legislature consider issues related to the responsibilities of tenants and landlords in flooded properties.

And it also says the state should protect volunteers from liability when they try to help people affected by natural disasters.