Date of Award
Spring 2019
Document Type
Honors Thesis
Department/Major
Political Science
First Advisor
Dr. Shane Nordyke
Second Advisor
Dr. Meghann Jarchow
Third Advisor
Dr. Travis Letellier
Keywords
Climate Change, Adaptation, Taxes, Flooding, Local Government
Abstract
As the effects of climate change intensify, major flooding events will become commonplace throughout the United States. This will make climate adaptation actions a necessity for many communities. This paper aims to provide useful information for state and local policymakers hoping to better understand the nature, importance, and implementation of climate adaptation actions. This paper includes analysis regarding: the links between climate change and flooding, the locations most susceptible to flooding in the US, the potential impacts of flooding, the role of state and local governments, potential climate adaptation actions, and how tax policy can be used to help implement policies aimed at climate adaptation. While the early sections of the paper hope to provide background and context, the latter sections concerning solutions and how to use tax policy to implement them are aimed at helping policymakers make informed decisions about what type of adaptation action and implementation method is best for their community. This paper does not set out to recommend one specific best course of action, because community needs vary. Rather, this paper should be viewed as a tool that can be used to provide context and assistance for policymakers interested in understanding and implementing climate adaptation projects.
Recommended Citation
Selgestad, Jacob, "Death, Taxes, and Climate Induced Flooding: How Local Governments Can Use Tax Policy to Implement Climate Adaptation Projects" (2019). Honors Thesis. 66.
https://red.library.usd.edu/honors-thesis/66