Free Republic

**SNIP** As FEMA has moved to update its decades-old flood maps, experts have cheered the effort. Using the latest in mapping technology such as laser beams (LiDar) and computer modeling will account for climate change, they say, and will lessen the blow of devastating storms by compelling homeowners to reduce their risk. But critics caution that the maps, which are used to determine flood insurance premiums, are tough to challenge and in some cases are ensnaring homeowners who shouldn’t be in a flood zone. And though FEMA intends for everyone to pay their share, some businesses have found a way...

The state’s quick adoption of FEMA’s advisory flood maps was sharply criticized Monday by Democratic state senators who said some residents will needlessly spend tens of thousands of dollars to raise their homes to standards that could be eased. Calling the requirements adopted last month by the Department of Environmental Protection "insane," Sen. Bob Smith (D-Middlesex) asked scientists at a hearing in Toms River if the maps are "scientifically valid." At least two scientists — who testified before the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee — declined to answer, but Stewart Farrell, director of the Coastal Research Center of the Richard...

STARK INTRODUCES NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM FAIRNESS ACT Legislation would protect homeowners, improve coordination between FEMA and local communities April 14, 2003 WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, Rep. Pete Stark introduced H.R. 1861, the National Flood Insurance Program Fairness Act. Stark’s bill would make needed improvements to the National Flood Insurance Program by requiring that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) give proper notice to local communities and homeowners when their property is included in a special flood hazard area, as well as provide reimbursement to those homeowners whose homes were wrongly classified. “Many local residents have homes that were...