WASHINGTON — Nat Wienecke, senior vice president of federal government relations at the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI) issued the following statement:

“PCI is pleased that Congress averted a lapse and passed legislation to continue the National Flood Insurance Program. However, this short duration is very concerning.

“Consumers and businesses need a reliable program that provides long-term access to flood insurance. Many Americans are in the process of rebuilding following the historic flooding brought on by the recent hurricanes. A long-term reauthorization will provide consumers with the certainty of knowing their claims will be processed promptly.

“We urge Congress to pass a long-term bill that will provide more consumer options and greater financial stability to the NFIP.”