PIA Calls on Congress to Immediately Extend the NFIP After Failure of Continuing Resolution

WASHINGTON, Jan. 20 -- The National Association of Professional Insurance Agents issued the following news release:

The National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA) calls on Congress to immediately pass legislation to extend the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which has officially lapsed due to Congress's failure to pass a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the federal government. The CR would have included an NFIP extension.

PIA is extremely disappointed with the lapse, as the NFIP is a program that is integral to policyholders.

Many consumers engaged in real estate transactions may experience disruptions because of this lapse, with some home sales put on indefinite hold. If flooding events occur during this lapse, some claims will not be processed.

The NFIP originally expired on September 30, 2017, after its 5-year authorization ended. It was then extended until December 8th, then again until December 22nd, and then extended again until January 19th. PIA calls on Congress to immediately pass an extension of the NFIP so that consumers and their properties can again be protected. We will also continue to urge Congress to pass a long-term reauthorization of the program that recognizes the key role independent agents play in delivering it to consumers.

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.