[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 67 (Tuesday, May 20, 1997)]
[House]
[Page H2934]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              FLOOD INSURANCE CRUCIAL FOR HURRICANE SEASON

  (Mr. BEREUTER asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, first of all, welcome to Mr. Redmond.
  This Member rises to urge his colleagues from hurricane-prone areas 
to remind their constituents and news columns and news releases that 
hurricane season is quickly approaching and, the key point, that now is 
the time to review their flood insurance policies to ensure adequate 
coverage.
  As of March 1, 1995, the national flood insurance program very 
appropriately, under congressional direction, imposes a 30-day waiting 
period between the time the premium is paid and the time the policy 
takes effect. This important change was made to encourage at-risk 
individuals to maintain adequate coverage at all times rather than 
waiting to purchase coverage only when danger is imminent.
  Constituents must take proper care of their investment by purchasing 
adequate flood insurance coverage at least 30 days prior to a disaster. 
Without taking this simple step, they have no standing to ask the other 
policyholders or the taxpayers to bail them out if their investment is 
lost due to unexpected flooding.
  This is fair warning that we should pass on to our constituents. If 
Members need more information, contact FEMA.

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