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Congressman Greg Murphy (NC-01) issued the following statement in response to the viral video of a Rodanthe house being swept away in Rodanthe recently:

“Homeowners should not be forced to wait for their home to be swept away before the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is implemented,” said Congressman Greg Murphy.

“We’ve seen so many beach properties destroyed in the last four years, including the home in Rodanthe this past weekend featured in the video that went viral on social media. Beach erosion continues to threaten properties up and down the coastline and we must better manage imminent disaster. Proactive planning will better serve beneficiaries, improve public safety, save taxpayer dollars, and protect the surrounding environment. My Prevent Environmental Hazards Act would give folks covered by the NFIP greater flexibility to manage natural disasters,” said Murphy.

On June 5, 2024, Murphy introduced legislation titled the Preventing Environmental Hazards Act, HR 8637. The statement summarizes the Act:

Preventing Environmental Hazards Act

– Authorizes NFIP payouts for structures condemned due to chronic erosion or unusual flooding.

– Allows advance payouts for demolition or relocation of up to 40% of the home’s value or $250,000.

– Limits payouts to 40% if owners neglect to act before a collapse.

– Reduces confusion in attributing damage to specific floods.

– Encourages proactive demolition or relocation to prevent collapses and reduce clean up costs.

Cosponsors are Reps. Chellie Pingree (ME-01), David Rouzer (NC-07), Don Davis (NC-01), Jen Kiggans (VA-02), Rob Wittman (VA-01), and Anthony D’Esposito (NY-04).

Outside support comes from Coastal States Organization, Washington, D.C., which represents the nation’s coastal states, territories and commonwealths on ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resource issues.

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