Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant Legal Program

Cutting-edge research in the areas of climate change, coastal processes, energy efficiency, hazards, stormwater management and tourism is the basis for Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant’s work with local communities regarding resilience. 

A resilient community has a diverse and vibrant economy, responds to and mitigates natural and technological hazards, and functions within the limits of its ecosystems. MASGC's unique research and engagement capabilities help coastal communities become more resilient.

Through the MASGC team, the Legal Program works with growing coastal populations to apply the best-available knowledge to coastal issues, such as increased demands on resources and vulnerability to coastal storms. 

MASGLP supports to the work of MASGC in this area by providing legal research, outreach, and education on a range of issues including flood insurance, stormwater management, and land use planning.

Flood Insurance

Recent changes to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) resulting from the Biggert-Waters Act of 2012, the Homeowners Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014, and the updated 2013 Community Rating System (CRS) Manual have had significant impacts on coastal communities across the Gulf of Mexico. These new developments present challenges and opportunities for coastal communities along the Gulf coast.

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