Murphy, Rouzer Introduce Legislation Removing North Topsail Beach from CBRS

Washington, D.C. – On Tuesday, May 18, 2021, Congressmen Greg Murphy, M.D. (NC-03) and David Rouzer (NC-07) introduced legislation to revise the boundaries of Unit L06 of the John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources System in North Topsail Beach, North Carolina.

"There's no question that North Topsail Beach is a developed area," said Murphy. "Residents there 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'm proud to lead the effort to fix this problem in the U.S House of Representatives."

"I'm pleased to join Congressman Murphy in the effort to help North Topsail Beach receive the federal resources they deserve," said 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 "The 1982 CBRA designation is outdated and must be reversed in order to increase shoreline protection in North Topsail Beach, as well as to support their citizens and local economies."

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 population of the town is estimated to be nearly 30,000 during the summertime.