New Flood Bill calls for a Four Year Delay on Biggert and Waters

Flood Insurance Affordability Bill Introduced
On October 29, 2013, Senators Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Johnny Isakson (R-GA) introduced the NAR-supported “Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act” (S. 1610), to delay unintended rate increases under the Biggert-Waters law and its implementation.

 Representatives Michael Grimm (R-NY) and Maxine Waters (D-CA) have introduced an identical bill in the House (H.R. 3370). The bipartisan measure essentially calls for a 4-year “time out” on further implementation of the rate structure until FEMA completes the affordability study required by Biggert-Waters and also proposes a regulatory solution to issues found in the study. The bill’s delay would apply to any property that is grandfathered or purchased after July 2012, including second homes and commercial properties. The other property owners will still see any rate increases capped at 20-25% a year. The bill would also create a Flood Insurance Advocate within FEMA to investigate and assist property owners with verifying the accuracy of flood insurance rate quotes. The bill was introduced with an impressive list of 15 Senate and 65 House original sponsors. NAR will continue pressing for additional co-sponsorship and urging its immediate consideration by Congress.