By Monique Roth
L’Observateur

LAPLACE – In welcomed news for homeowners all across the River Parishes, the U.S. Senate passed the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act this week on Jan. 30.

The Senate’s passage of the act, which was accomplished in a 67-32 vote, is an important step in correcting massive flood insurance rate hikes for policyholders across the country in the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reformation Act.

“Passage of the Homeowners Flood Insurance Affordability Act by the Senate was a great victory for the coalition and the country,” said St. John Parish President Natalie Robottom. “This was a team effort that must now move to the House for support.”

The Senate urged the House to consider the legislation as soon as possible.

“Now, we shift our focus to the House to convince representatives across America that this delay is vital to protect the American Dream,” said St. Charles Parish President V.J. St. Pierre, Jr.

The act delays most rate increases for four years, at which time the National Flood Insurance Program would need to be reauthorized by Congress. All post-flood insurance rate map properties, including primary residences, will be covered for the full four-year delay.

The act also provides for the reimbursement of local funds expended on successful flood insurance rate map appeals.

St. James Parish President Timmy Roussel said the act is a fairness issue for everyone.

“I want to thank the Louisiana congressional delegation for their leadership, Michael Hecht and Caitlin Berni with GNO, Inc. and those who have also shown support for the Coalition for Sustainable Insurance,” said Roussel.