Hurricane legislation would help curb commmunity costs, improve research
(Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen) June 3rd, 2009
My South Florida Congressional District includes over 265 miles of Florida
coastline stretching from Miami Beach to the Southernmost City of Key West.
This pristine coast makes South Florida vulnerable to hurricanes and their
impact has cost our local economy tens of billions of dollars in destroyed
properties and lost tourist revenue. This is why I have remained focused and
active on legislating bills that protect our community from the cost of
hurricanes and have sought greater federal investments in hurricane
research.

Several bills now in the House focus on hurricanes and their impact and I am
proud to support them all:

* The Homeowners Defense Act would reduce the cost and improve availability
of homeowners insurance in Florida and around the country.
* The National Hurricane Research Initiative Act will focus resources on
improving severe tropical storm forecasting capabilities while investing in
durable and resilient infrastructure to alleviate impacts on coastal
populations.
* The Hurricane and Tornado Mitigation Investment Act will give individuals
and businesses a tax credit for up to $5,000 for hurricane mitigation
property costs such as reinforcing a roof and protecting against windborne
debris.

As we enter a new hurricane season we must all do our part to make sure we
are prepared and that we are informed. It can make the difference between
life and death.