NFIP Extended Through Nov. 30

On Tuesday, the U.S. Senate voted to extend the NFIP through Nov. 30 by a vote of 86-12. The U.S. House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly to pass the same measure last week. President Trump signed the measure on July 31, meaning the NFIP did not have a lapse in authority during the height of the Atlantic hurricane season.

In the weeks leading up to the July 31 NFIP reauthorization deadline, the Big “I,” its state associations and members across the country engaged in an extensive advocacy and grassroots campaign. The Big “I” thanks every insurance professional who contacted their members of Congress to make their voice heard and avoid a lapse in the NFIP.

Congress reauthorized the program through Nov. 30, but has yet to agree on a consensus measure to keep the program operating into 2019. Ahead of the new deadline, contentious debate is already brewing regarding possible reforms to be included in any NFIP extension legislation.

Disagreement over how to best reform the program, as well as politics surrounding the outcome of the upcoming midterm election, could potentially lead to a lapse in November.

The Big “I” supports a long-term reauthorization of a modernized NFIP that would increase take-up rates for flood insurance in both the NFIP and the private market. But in the meantime, it is critical that the NFIP remain available for over 5 million policyholders who rely on it.

Jennifer Webb is Big “I” federal government affairs counsel.