The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently announced the launch of the Interim Office of the Flood Insurance Advocate, led by the Acting Flood Insurance Advocate, David Stearrett. NAR strongly supported the creation of the Advocate's Office during congressional debate of the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act (HFIAA).
The Interim Office will offer specialized assistance to citizens and policyholders on National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) issues, as well as regional mapping outreach and education support. To best carry out its mission, duties and responsibilities (subject to budget resources), the Interim Office will be an independent office within FEMA and report directly to the Associate Administrator and the FEMA Administrator.
The Acting Advocate will focus on assisting the public as they navigate through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to address specific public inquiries or concerns and will also develop a long-term regional mapping outreach and education strategy. NAR will continue to work with Congress to ensure the Advocate's Office has sufficient budgetary resources to fulfill its critical mission.