Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that Congress recently reauthorized the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).  Passed by Congress as part of a larger Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012 (HR 4348), the reauthorization of the federal flood insurance program was signed by President Obama into law on July 6, 2012, which will extend the program through September 30, 2017.

  First created by Congress in 1968, the NFIP has played a central role in the Federal Government’s flood risk management policy, which includes efforts in the prevention and recovery from flooding disasters.  As of April 30, 2012, the NFIP covers 461 households and businesses in American Samoa, covering more than $14.6 million of property.

 “As an isolated small island Territory in the middle of the vast South Pacific Ocean, we are constantly reminded of our vulnerability against hurricanes, earthquakes and other natural hazards.  The NFIP program underscores federal commitment to ensure that the people of American Samoa are safe and their properties are insured in the event of flooding,” Faleomavaega said.

 “Therefore, I am pleased that despite the current political climate in Washington D.C., Congress was able to extend this critical program for the next five years.  It is my hope to continue to work with my colleagues in Congress, to ensure that the Federal Government stands ready to provide critical federal assistance to prevent damages and to help in the recovery from natural disasters,” Faleomavaega concluded.