H.R. 5229: Improvement of Mapping, Addresses, Geography, Elevations, and Structures Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Improvement of Mapping, Addresses, Geography, Elevations, and Structures Act of 2025 (or IMAGES Act of 2025), aims to enhance the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) by improving the accuracy and availability of flood maps and related data. Below are the key components of the bill:

Improvements to Flood Mapping

The bill proposes amendments to the existing flood mapping program to include:

• Planimetric features: These are geographic elements such as roads and building footprints. The bill requires that rate maps include detailed information about these features, along with parcel identification data and associated addresses.
• Format of rate maps: Enhancements are planned for the formatting of maps to ensure they are spatially accurate, based on updated geospatial data.

Stream Flow Networks

To better assess flood risks, the bill mandates coordination with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) for maintaining and enhancing stream flow networks. This includes:

• Ensuring that stream gage stations are operational with modern technology.
• Adding new gage stations in high-risk areas and reactivating inactive ones.
• Improving the speed at which geospatial real-time data feeds are transmitted from these stations.

Public Data Access

The bill requires the creation of a national geospatial data repository accessible to the public. This repository will:

• Provide access to raw data used in flood maps, allowing users to query details to the property level.
• Enable visualization of flood risks, insurance zones, and elevation levels.
• Include various flood-related reports and assessments.

Data Verification and Funding

The bill stipulates that rate maps need to be verified for current and credible data at least once every five years. Additionally:

• A portion of the revenue collected through the flood insurance program will be allocated quarterly to maintain and create accurate flood maps.

Qualification-Based Selection for Contracts

When awarding contracts for program management, architectural services, or mapping, the bill specifies that contractors must be selected based on qualifications. This aligns with established federal or state procedures.

Definitions

The bill includes specific definitions for terms such as:

• Planimetric feature: Geographic elements independent of elevation.
• Parcel identification data: Information linked to a parcel of land, including geographic location, boundaries, and ownership details.

Conclusion

The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen the foundation of the National Flood Insurance Program by enhancing mapping accuracy and data availability, ultimately aimed at better flood risk management and transparency for property owners.

Relevant Companies

• THO - Thor Industries, Inc.: As a major manufacturer of recreational vehicles, Thor might be affected by changes in flood risk assessments, particularly if they operate in regions prone to flooding.
• FLO - Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc.: Given that fresh produce could be impacted by flooding, their operations might be influenced by updated flood risk areas.