Political Quotes

“I rise in support of H.R. 3191, the National Flood Insurance Reform Act. In particular, I want to express my appreciation to Chairman Kennedy for addressing the concerns of many Members regarding the erosion zone provisions in the original version of the bill. I thank Chairman Kennedy and Mr. McCandless for working with Mr. Bacchus, Mr. Baker, and other Members from coastal areas like myself who had serious concerns over section 407 of the bill. This section would have essentially prohibited flood insurance for homes in the 30- or 60-year erosion zones. This provision would have negatively impacted coastal communities, like those in Delaware, without a proven benefit to the Flood Insurance Program. I am pleased that the bill before us today has been modified to require an independent economic impact study to assess the costs and benefits of mapping erosion zones. H.R. 3191 will improve the National Flood Insurance Program and strengthen its financial soundness. Enforcing the purchase of flood insurance through banks and other mortgage lenders will cover more homes and bring more homeowners into the program. This will help keep the fund in the black, maintain premium rates at a fair level, and ensure its ability to cover claims. Residents in areas prone to flooding should be required to purchase and maintain flood insurance. This legislation will enhance this goal.”