Unless members of Congress take action, authority for the National Flood Insurance Program will expire on July 1.

We cannot let that happen. While NFIP is not a household name, often it is the only flood insurance available in a given market. That is important because if a property is in the 100 Year Floodplain, lenders will require flood insurance as part of the mortgage approval process.

When the program lapses, the NFIP cannot issue new policies or even renew existing ones. The last time Congress allowed that to happen, the National Association of REALTORS® estimated that 40,000 home sales were at stake every month.

The problem is not just an issue for waterfront homes, either. Flooding can occur as a result of storm surge, severe rain or even snow melt. It is no surprise that over 20,000 communities across the country depend on the NFIP.

Nor is the problem just a national issue. Consumers are affected in our local tri-county area with flooding. When sellers cannot sell, and buyers cannot buy due to lack of flood insurance, our housing market suffers tremendously.

Members of the National Association of REALTORS® in the State of Mississippi know this is important. After all, if flood insurance is not available, REALTORS® are the ones who may have to tell clients that their dream home is off the table until the NFIP is extended.

Consumers deserve better.

Congressmen Trent Kelly, Bennie Thompson, Gregg Harper, and Steven Palazzo should put their support behind the National Flood Insurance Program and ensure it does not lapse. Over 20,000 communities are counting on Congress to get the job done.

You can let your congressperson know how you feel at https://realtorparty.realtor/renewnfip