The U.S. Senate has approved a short-term extension of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) through November 30th. With the U.S. House of Representatives having already cleared the legislation, the measure now goes to President Trump for his signature into law.
The Trump Administration supports the short-term NFIP extension but has called on Congress to pass legislation reforming the flood insurance program this year. The president must sign the NFIP extension today to prevent a temporary lapse in NFIP’s authority to issue or renew flood insurance policies.
Earlier this year, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 2874, the 21st Century Flood Reform Act by a narrow vote of 237 – 189. This reform legislation authorizes premium increases while providing funds to improve the accuracy of federal flood maps. H.R. 2874 also increases funding for NFIP flood mitigation programs that help local governments and homeowners reduce flood risks.
The U.S. Senate has declined to debate H.R. 2874, with Senators introducing as many as four NFIP reauthorization and reform bills. Sharp policy disagreements among Senators has stymied progress on a consensus set of NFIP reforms, including proposals intended to expand private flood insurance coverage.
Today, the National Flood Insurance Program is extended until November 30. Between now and then, we expect much debate in Congress to reform the program. To stay up-to-date on the NFIP and community associations, click here.
