National Association of Professional Insurance Agents Statement on Two-Week Extension of National Flood Insurance Program

WASHINGTON, May 30 -- The National Association of Professional Insurance Agents issued the following news release:

The National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA National) is pleased that the House passed by unanimous consent S. 1693, a bill to extend the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for a two-week period ending on June 14. The NFIP currently scheduled to expire at midnight tomorrow, May 31. PIA urges President Trump to sign the legislation, which he is expected to do.

This was the second attempt this week to pass an extension of the NFIP. On Tuesday, May 28, the two-week extension was blocked by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY), who demanded a recorded vote. The House is currently out of session, but it can pass legislation in pro forma session using unanimous consent if no members object. A recorded vote cannot take place until the House returns next week.

"PIA National is pleased that, once signed into law by the president, the NFIP will not lapse Friday," said Jon Gentile, vice president of government relations for PIA National. "Hurricane season begins June 1, and several states over the last few weeks have been dealing with disastrous flooding. Bringing the NFIP to the brink of lapse is unfair to homeowners who rely on this vital program."

"PIA National now calls on Congress to pass the disaster relief legislation (H.R. 2157) next week when the House returns to Washington as its first order of business. H.R. 2157 includes a 4-month extension of the NFIP, reauthorizing it until September 30, 2019. Congress must then get serious about passing a long-term reauthorization of the NFIP before its next expiration date," added Gentile.

Founded in 1931, PIA is a national trade association that represents member insurance agents and their employees who sell and service all kinds of insurance, but specialize in coverage of automobiles, homes and businesses. PIA members are Local Agents Serving Main Street America SM.PIA's web address is www.pianet.com.