This week, the Big “I” joined a diverse range of partners and stakeholders in sending a letter urging Congress to maintain appropriated funding of at least the FY2019 level—$262.5 million—for FEMA’s Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis Program.

Addressed to the leaders of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate Appropriations Committees, the letter made five important points:

• Flooding is responsible for more loss of life and property than any other natural disaster in the U.S.
• Current and accurate flood mapping is the key to minimizing future losses.
• Both taxpayers and policyholders benefit from flood mapping.
• Flood mapping is a cost-effective taxpayer investment.
• Mapping also reduces NFIP borrowing.

For these reasons, the Big “I” will continue to work with important stakeholders and Congress to make sure that FEMA’s Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis Program is funded at an appropriate level.

Wyatt Stewart is Big “I” senior director of federal government affairs.