Senate Passes Bill to Reauthorize Flood Program

October 30, 2003

The Senate this week passed by unanimous consent agreement S. 1768, the “National Flood Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2004.” The bill, introduced by Senator Jim Bunning (R-Ky.) and Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), provides a one-year reauthorization of the program through Dec. 31, 2004.

“The National Association of Independent Insurers (NAII) supports reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and praises Sens. Bunning and Shelby for recognizing the importance of renewing this program, and for making every effort to see that legislation moves forward. Reauthorization of the NFIP will maintain stability for millions of homeowners, prospective homebuyers and business owners across the country who must purchase flood insurance coverage,” said Carl Parks, senior vice president, government relations.

The House bill provides for a multi-year extension of the NFIP until 2008. The Senate Banking Committee is reportedly interested in examining the program and perhaps making some reforms.

The single year renewal would reportedly assure the program does not lapse as it did last year, and provides the Committee with time to hold hearings and examine the issue during the next session of Congress.

“Renewal of the NFIP is essential, and NAII urges the House and Senate to work cooperatively to pass legislation this year to avoid a lapse in the program,” added Parks.

Editor’s Note: See related story in National news.

Topics Flood Politics

Was this article valuable?

Here are more articles you may enjoy.