IMAGES Act of 2025

This bill updates how FEMA makes and shares flood maps for the National Flood Insurance Program. It adds more detail to maps—like parcel ID information and, when possible, addresses—and sets standards so maps are more accurate and consistent with modern mapping systems within five years of the new national reference system being completed. It also tells FEMA to work with the U.S. Geological Survey to keep stream gages running, add more in high‑risk areas, and speed up real‑time water data, which helps predict floods better. The bill requires a public online data hub where people can see raw mapping data, flood risks, zones, and elevations—even down to the property level—and related models and plans. FEMA must check every map at least once every five years to make sure the data is current, and use qualifications‑based selection for mapping and engineering contracts while honoring state licensing rules. It also sets aside a steady funding stream—each quarter, 5% of certain program revenue—to keep maps up to date.

Key points:

• Who is affected: People who live, work, or build in flood‑prone areas; local governments; emergency managers; and anyone who needs accurate flood risk info.
• What changes: More detailed and accurate maps (with parcel IDs/addresses), stronger stream gage networks, a public data portal, regular 5‑year map checkups, and stricter rules for selecting mapping/engineering contractors .
• When: Maps must be updated to the new national reference system within five years of its completion; map data must be verified at least every five years; funding is allocated every fiscal quarter .