Sen. Joe Manchin said Wednesday he will support legislation to delay federal flood insurance premium increases under the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform and Modernization Act of 2012.

A procedural vote in the Senate on the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act had been set for Wednesday, but was delayed as senators continued debate on a proposed three-month extension of jobless benefits. Similar legislation proposed in the House has yet to move out of committee.

If the proposed legislation passes, new rates wouldn't kick in for another four years. Manchin, D-W.Va., said the delay would allow more time for an affordability study that was required by Biggert-Waters - a measure that passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, including yes votes from every local representative in Congress except Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio.

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