Wasserman Schultz Votes for Flood Insurance Reform, Affordability

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) voted today to advance bipartisan legislation that would bring relief to tens of thousands of homeowners in Florida and around the nation trying to afford and maintain flood insurance coverage.

The procedural motion, which failed by a vote of 193-225, would have allowed the House to immediately take up and pass legislation to delay most rate hikes until the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) conducts an affordability study and updates its flood maps. An almost identical bill was passed by the Senate last week.

“As I have said before, Congress must act to keep flood insurance affordable. This bill allows for time to research the most affordable and efficient ways to reform the National Flood Insurance Program so that we can ensure stability for Florida homeowners,” said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. “Such steps would ease homeowners’ concerns and prevent unnecessary shock to the housing market in Florida and nationwide. I urge Speaker Boehner to bring the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act to the House floor for full consideration without delay.”