Officials push to extend National Flood Insurance Program

Sen. Chuck Schumer was in Freeport Wednesday, calling for the extension of the National Flood Insurance Program before it expires at the end of September.

The program currently provides affordable flood insurance to millions of property owners and renters nationwide.

Schumer's proposal would extend the program by five years and cap annual premium hikes at 9%.

On average, the proposal would cap increases at no more than $90 per year, Schumer said.

"After Sandy, we learned we were as vulnerable as anybody else,” says Schumer. "We have a bipartisan plan that will help the homeowner continue to get affordable flood insurance without them paying what lalapalooza increases in premiums."

He says the issue concerns all Long Islanders, not just those with waterfront properties.