Yuba-Sutter Times

Congressmen Doug LaMalfa and Mike Thompson have introduced the Disaster Resiliency and Coverage Act of 2025, aiming to provide incentives for homeowners in disaster-prone areas to fortify their properties against wildfires and other risks. This initiative seeks to address the insurance crisis in California and other states, where increased natural disasters have led insurers to raise rates or leave markets.

Rep. LaMalfa stated, "Homeowners should be able to lower their insurance costs by reducing the risks to their property, but right now, many are stuck with skyrocketing rates or no coverage at all." He emphasized that the bill offers homeowners a chance to strengthen their homes and encourage insurers back into the market.

Rep. Thompson highlighted the severity of the issue in his district: "Property insurance has quickly become one of the single biggest issues I hear about in my district. People can’t get covered: either the available options are completely unaffordable, or there are no options available at all. It’s an untenable situation."

The legislation proposes a grant program administered through state governments, offering up to $10,000 for specified disaster resiliency work on homes in designated regions. Additionally, it ensures that payments from state-run disaster programs and federal emergency agricultural programs are not considered income for federal tax purposes. A 30 percent tax credit is also provided for qualified disaster risk mitigation activities by individuals or businesses.

Doug LaMalfa serves as Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and represents California’s First Congressional District.