Possible bad news if you've got plans to close on a new home in the near future. The Department of Homeland Security has issued new guidance which prevents FEMA from writing or renewing National Flood Insurance Program policies during the current government shutdown. The Senate recently passed a 6-month extension of the program, and Senator Marco Rubio is now urging a reversal of the DHS guidance so new flood policies may be written.
Rubio said, “Last week, I was proud to work with my colleagues to secure a six month extension of the NFIP to ensure that Floridians were able to maintain access to a program so vital to our state. However, I have been informed that DHS has now issued new guidance that prevents FEMA from writing or renewing policies during the current government shutdown. I strongly disagree with this guidance as it incorrectly interprets congressional intent demonstrated last week with Congress passing legislation to keep the program operating until June 2019. I am asking OMB to reverse DHS actions and ensure Floridians can continue to obtain and maintain flood insurance.”
The shutdown is expected to continue into the new year.