U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) delivered a speech on the Senate floor urging Congress to prevent a lapse in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) when it expires on September 30. He stressed the importance of ensuring long-term stability for Louisiana families and millions of policyholders nationwide who depend on the program.
“It is irresponsible for Congress to continue to make families hold their breath and hope the rug will not be pulled out from beneath them. It is a pattern that should end,” Cassidy said.
He called on lawmakers to keep NFIP strong, reliable, and worthy of the trust of American families. His speech follows years of advocacy to make flood insurance affordable, accountable to taxpayers, and sustainable for future generations.
This summer, Cassidy marked the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina by highlighting the progress made in rebuilding infrastructure. He also pressed Congress to act quickly to extend NFIP before the September deadline.
Throughout 2024, Cassidy has repeatedly spoken against the Biden-era Risk Rating 2.0 policy, warning it could make premiums unaffordable for low- and middle-income families. In May, he urged that NFIP remain affordable, and in April, he pushed for the continuation of FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program, which funds flood prevention and mitigation projects.
Earlier in the year, Cassidy introduced the Flood Insurance Affordability Tax Credit Act, offering low- and middle-income households a 33% refundable tax credit to offset rising NFIP premiums. He also proposed legislation to extend NFIP through December 31, 2026.
Cassidy’s advocacy has included Senate hearings, community roundtables, and visits across Louisiana. Last year, he released a report detailing the challenges facing NFIP and warning of skyrocketing premiums. He also traveled to St. Bernard Parish to speak directly with residents about their concerns, documenting the visit as part of his Bill on the Hill series.
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