On the recordMarch 4, 2014
I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. I rise in strong support of H.R. 3370. At the outset, let me thank Congressman Grimm, Congressman LoBiondo, and Ranking Member Waters for the work that they have done in bringing together a true, bipartisan bill to this floor. The Biggert-Waters bill was well-intended, but there were unintended consequences, and some of those consequences would be absolutely devastating to hundreds, if not thousands, of constituents in my district who were devastated by Hurricane Sandy. I would just state for the record that these people are not millionaires. They complied with the law, with all the building codes, all the ordinances. They never had any flood damage in their 50, 60 years prior to this--but their homes are devastated. To add to that the incredible increase they will get in premiums for flood insurance would be even the ultimate devastation. So this bill is absolutely essential. Ironically, it will actually decrease Federal spending over the next 5 years, but it is important that we stand together to help those in need, people who complied with the laws, hardworking, blue-collar Americans who are proud of their homes, proud of their families, and want the opportunity to get back on their feet. They were devastated once. Let's not allow Congress to devastate them again. {time} 1745
