Senate Okays Flood Cover Extension, But GAO Says Serious Reforms Required

The U.S. Senate last week unanimously voted to extend the current National Flood Insurance Program for one year--until Sept. 30, 2011--with industry trade group officials lauding the development and urging the House to also act promptly. However, after the vote, the Government Accountability Office cautioned members of the Senate Banking Committee that major changes in NFIP policies and administration are needed and may involve tough decisions Congress might be unwilling to make.