Reps. Murphy and Rouzer Re-Introduce Bill to Protect NC Shoreline Communities
March 31, 2023 - Press Release
Washington, D.C. – Reps. Greg Murphy, M.D. (NC-03) and David Rouzer (NC-07) introduced legislation this week to revise the boundaries of Unit L06 of the John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources System in North Topsail Beach, North Carolina. Current boundaries leave part of Topsail Beach exempt from federal assistance needed to protect its shoreline.
"There's no question that North Topsail Beach is a developed area," said Rep. Murphy. "Residents in part of the town shouldn't be deprived of the same federal benefits every other American has access to because Congress made a mistake nearly four decades ago. I've listened to my constituents and am proud to lead the effort to fix this unnecessary problem affecting so many of them."
"I'm pleased to join Congressman Murphy in the effort to help North Topsail Beach receive the federal resources they deserve," said Rep. Rouzer. "The 1982 CBRA designation is outdated and must be reversed in order to increase shoreline protection in North Topsail Beach, as well as to protect life, property, and our critical tourism economy in the event of a natural disaster.”
Background
In 1982, Congress passed the Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA), which designates undeveloped coastal barrier islands for inclusion in the Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS). These designated areas are ineligible for certain federal financial assistance that may support development, such as National Flood Insurance, VA loans, and shore protection projects conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
A portion of North Topsail Beach, designated as Unit L06, was deemed undeveloped and therefore included in the CBRS. However, significant infrastructure existed in L06 prior to the CBRA's passage, including roads, sewer, electric, public water systems, and a high-rise bridge connecting the island to the mainland. The rest of the town is not included in the CBRS, nor are other towns on the island. The population of the town is estimated to be nearly 30,000 during the summertime.
