What is the Coastal Barrier Resources System and how does it affect flood insurance?
The U.S. Congress passed the Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA) in 1982 and the Coastal Barrier Improvement Act (CBIA) in 1990, to define and establish a system of protected coastal areas (including the Great Lakes) known as the Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS). Coastal barriers are unique landforms that serve as a protective barrier against the forces of wind and tidal actions caused by coastal storms. In addition, coastal barriers provide a protective habitat for a variety of aquatic species. The CBRA was initially enacted to reduce or restrict Federal actions that were believed to encourage development in certain undeveloped coastal barrier areas, including both islands and mainland property. While the CBRA and CBIA do not prevent private financing and development within the CBRS, they do limit financial assistance by Federal agencies. Any expenditure of Federal funds for a loan, grant, guarantee, insurance payment, rebate, subsidy, or any other form of direct or indirect F
