Mississippi Gulf News

Representatives Mike Ezell, Troy A. Carter, Sr., Julia Letlow, and Cleo Fields have introduced the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Authorization Extension Act. This bipartisan bill, aimed at providing stability for Mississippi property owners and the real estate market, seeks to extend the federal authorization for the NFIP through December 31, 2026.

Ezell emphasized the need for the bill, stating, "For far too long, families, businesses, and entire communities along our coast have lived with the uncertainty caused by short-term extensions of the National Flood Insurance Program." He highlighted that the extension would send a message of commitment to coastal communities by ensuring they have the necessary tools to recover and rebuild from natural disasters.

Carter, expressing pride in introducing the bill, remarked, "For too long, homeowners, small businesses, and local economies have lived under the cloud of short-term NFIP extensions, often attached to contentious government funding bills." He underscored the need for certainty for policyholders as flooding incidents increase.

Letlow highlighted the importance of the program due to frequent storms in Louisiana. She said, "For many Louisianans, flood insurance is not just a policy—it’s a lifeline." Fields echoed the importance of accessible flood insurance, especially in Louisiana's climate. He stated, "Passing the NFIP Authorization Extension Act is essential to protecting hardworking people across Louisiana."

The Senate counterpart to this bill was introduced by Senators Bill Cassidy and John Kennedy in March 2025. Representatives Marc Veasey, Jared Moskowitz, and LaMonica McIver are also cosponsors of the House legislation.

GNO, Inc. President Michael Hecht noted, "Rather than experiencing a 33rd short-term extension, NFIP policyholders deserve certainty, and NFIP as a program requires stability." He advocated for comprehensive discussions around insurance reform.

National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase acknowledged the significance of continuous NFIP operations, thanking the Representatives for their leadership. He expressed eagerness to collaborate with congressional partners for legislative approval.

The NFIP, managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), provides flood insurance to homeowners and businesses, lessening the financial burden of flooding. It is a vital component for coastal areas, offering essential protection from flood-related economic hardships.