Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio, along with Congressmen Byron Donalds and Greg Steube, have jointly addressed a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell, urging the agency to reverse its recent decision impacting National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders in Lee County, Florida.

The letter expressed concerns over FEMA's move to eliminate discounts for some NFIP policyholders in Lee County, particularly the community premium discount of 25 percent. This decision, if implemented, would result in higher costs for residents. The lawmakers emphasized the importance of maintaining affordability for flood insurance in the region, especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian.

Sen. Rick Scott, a long-time advocate for NFIP reform, highlighted his efforts to address the affordability of flood insurance for Florida families. The letter to Administrator Criswell underscored the challenges faced by Lee County residents in the wake of the disaster and urged FEMA to honor the original discounts and engage with local leaders to find solutions.

The joint message from the senators and congressmen emphasized the need for FEMA to collaborate with local authorities to prevent further cost increases that could burden families and businesses still recovering from the impact of Hurricane Ian. The lawmakers expressed their commitment to working with FEMA to protect NFIP discounts in Lee County and ensure the financial stability of Florida residents.

The letter concluded with a call for immediate action from FEMA to review the decision and maintain the existing discounts, reflecting the ongoing efforts of Sens. Rick Scott and Marco Rubio, along with Reps. Byron Donalds and Greg Steube, to safeguard the interests of Lee County residents in the face of rising living costs and post-disaster challenges.