Vern Buchanan Backs Funding Bill Due to Flood Insurance, Citrus

U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., voted to support the 2014 government funding bill on Wedensday. Buchanan cited the flood insurance delay against Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and $20 million being sent to fight citrus greening as reasons he backed it.

Hundreds of thousands of Floridians are experiencing untenable rate increases that threaten to wash away property values and push people out of their homes, said Buchanan. This bill will provide immediate relief for most policyholders while providing time for Congress to work on a permanent solution that reforms the nations flood insurance program.

Citrus greening is threatening the future of Floridas oranges and the related jobs right here in Sarasota and Manatee counties, he added, noting the smallest orange crop in 24 years. This measure is a positive first step toward combating this destructive disease.