CUELLAR PROVISION ADDRESSES LOCAL CONCERN FOR OUTDATED FLOOD ZONE MAPS
Written by Post Public Information Representative, Jul 14, 2011, 0 Comments
Courtesy Jose Borjon,Amendment was included in the National Flood Reform Act of 2011
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) successfully included an amendment in the National Flood Reform Act, which will directly benefit flood-prone communities with outdated flood zone maps in the 28th District of Texas. It addresses local concerns by strengthening relationships among the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), state emergency agencies, and local communities to have a steady and productive process for updating flood zone maps. The amendment passed the U.S. House of Representatives Tuesday evening by a vote of 406 to 22.
“Homeowners and businesses in South Texas have been hit by flood disaster yearly,” Congressman Cuellar said. “In speaking with my constituents, I learned that flood zone maps in the 28th District of Texas had not been updated for decades. My amendment will decrease the prevalence of outdated flood maps by requiring increased communications and assistance between federal, state and local entities.”
Specifically, the amendment requires FEMA, state emergency agencies and communities where flood insurance rate maps have not been updated in 20 years or more to enhance communications to resolve outstanding issues and provide necessary, tailored information to decrease the prevalence of outdated flood zone maps.
“A flood-threatened area with outdated flood zone maps is contradictory and can result in serious problems for the region,” Congressman Cuellar said. “I am pleased this bipartisan legislation passed the House of Representatives – I will continue to ensure that flood-threatened communities are protected and provided the necessary resources.”
The bill now moves to Senate for consideration.
