Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) successfully included an amendment in the National Flood Reform Act, which will directly benefit flood-prone communities with outdated flood zone maps in the 28th District of Texas. It addresses local concerns by strengthening relationships among the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), state emergency agencies, and local communities to have a steady and productive process for updating flood zone maps. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives Tuesday evening by a vote of 406 to 22.

“Homeowners and businesses in South Texas have been hit by flood disaster yearly,” Congressman Cuellar said. “In speaking with my constituents, I learned that flood zone maps in the 28th District of Texas had not been updated for decades. My amendment will decrease the prevalence of outdated flood maps by requiring increased communications and assistance between federal, state and local entities.”

Specifically, the amendment requires FEMA, state emergency agencies and communities where flood insurance rate maps have not been updated in 20 years or more to enhance communications to resolve outstanding issues and provide necessary, tailored information to decrease the prevalence of outdated flood zone maps.

“A flood-threatened area with outdated flood zone maps is contradictory and can result in serious problems for the region,” Congressman Cuellar said.  “I am pleased this bipartisan legislation passed the House of Representatives – I will continue to ensure that flood-threatened communities are protected and provided the necessary resources.”

The bill now moves to Senate for consideration.

Background:

H.R. 1309, Flood Insurance Reform Act reauthorized the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) through September 30, 2016. The bill also makes numerous changes to the program, which provides federally subsidized insurance to homeowners, renters and businesses if their community participates in the NFIP. The bill provides authority to temporarily suspend mandatory purchase requirements for those in special flood hazard areas. The National Flood Insurance Program is the primary source for reliable, affordable flood insurance coverage for 5.6 million American homes and businesses. The bill is supported by many organizations, including the National Association of Realtors, the National Association of Homebuilders, the American Insurance Association, the Property Casualty Insurers Association, and the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America.