WASHINGTON - Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D., says delays in reauthorizing the National Flood Insurance Program are hurting thousands of American homeowners who depend on the program for flood insurance.
In a statement released Wednesday, Dorgan said the insurance program will not be able to issue new policies, increase coverage, approve renewal policies or pay claims until Republicans in Congress stop holding up the reauthorization.
The flood insurance program, which protects homeowners from flood-related damage, is part of a larger bill that includes an extension in unemployment insurance and COBRA health coverage.
Dorgan said Republican tactics forced the flood insurance program to expire, preventing thousands of Americans from being able to use their insurance. Reports have also indicated that 1,400 homebuyers are being denied access to flood insurance every day, preventing them from being able to close on the purchase of their home.
