The House of Representatives last week unanimously approved legislation that would require federal agencies to accept private flood insurance for residential properties if it complies with state insurance laws and regulations. Approved by a vote of 419-0, H.R. 2901, the Flood Insurance Market Parity and Modernization Act, would remove regulatory barriers and clarify Congress’ intent to encourage the use of private flood insurance to compete with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Specifically, the bill lifts certain federal restrictions placed on insurance companies and gives states more flexibility to license and regulate private flood insurance. Under current law, homeowners are limited...