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NFIP extended to March 23

Posted On: Feb. 9, 2018 7:57 AM CST

NFIP extended to March 23

The National Flood Insurance Program has been extended to March 23 as part of a continuing resolution to fund the federal government.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the measure on a 240-186 vote early Friday morning, while the Senate adopted the resolution on a 71-28 vote. The resolution was then signed by President Donald Trump, ending the brief shutdown that began at midnight.

The NFIP was retroactively extended in January to Feb. 8 as part of a deal to end the three-day federal government shutdown. But even the brief lapse highlighted the significant consequences for risk managers of the program’s expiration.

“While it is disappointing that the NFIP lapsed again, though this time only for a few overnight hours, we’re pleased with the extension to March 23,” said Jon Gentile, national vice president of government relations for the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents. “Congress must use the time between now and then to move away from short-term measures and provide a long-term reauthorization of this program. The NFIP is a program that requires certainty. It is also in great need of reforms. PIA will continue our advocacy for a long-term reauthorization of the program that recognizes the essential role independent agents play in providing expert advice to consumers.”