Federal disaster policy should shift its focus toward mitigation in order to reduce future disaster costs, the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies says. The industry group recommends that the federal government create incentives for states to adopt and enforce strong building codes.
“For decades, Congress has provided insufficient funding for disaster relief and then added funds in the middle of fiscal years,” Robert Detlefsen, vice president of public policy for NAMIC, told the Senate Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Management. “Merely hoping the weather cooperates and relying on luck are not the ways to establish FEMA’s disaster relief budget.”
NAMIC and the BuildStrong Coalition are advocating for the Safe Building Code Incentive Act, which provides additional post-disaster grant money to states that adopt and enforce a model statewide building code.
"There is overwhelming scientific evidence to support the conclusion that statewide building codes save lives and greatly reduce property damage and the subsequent need for federal disaster aid," Detlefsen said. He noted that a study by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that for every $1 spent to make buildings stronger, the American taxpayer saves $4 in federal disaster assistance.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Aug 16, 2017
Big changes coming to Ontario building code
Proposals include solar-ready roofs, more stringent heating/cooling efficiency requirements, and graywater reuse.
Codes and Standards | Aug 15, 2017
ASHRAE certifications recognized by DOE as meeting Better Buildings Workforce Guidelines
Two of six such certifications are ASHRAE programs.
Codes and Standards | Aug 14, 2017
New edition of AISC Steel Construction Manual now available
Includes the 2016 Specification for Structural Steel Buildings.
Codes and Standards | Aug 10, 2017
AAMA releases updated Standard Test Method for Water Penetration Using Dynamic Pressure
The update applies to windows, curtain walls, and doors.
Codes and Standards | Aug 9, 2017
UpCodes aims to make researching building codes, regulations easier through searchable app
App currently includes building codes of 40 states and New York City.
Codes and Standards | Aug 8, 2017
3D printing industry working to implement standards for products, processes
Additive Manufacturing Standardization Collective (AMSC) will develop industry-wide additive manufacturing standards and specifications.
Codes and Standards | Aug 7, 2017
Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat to create standards to measure floor area
The standards will examine existing codes and regulations to find where they are too broad or contentious.
Codes and Standards | Aug 3, 2017
ASID headquarters is first space in the world to earn both LEED and WELL Platinum Certification
Washington, D.C. office is showcase for top levels of the two standards.
Codes and Standards | Aug 2, 2017
OSHA to release web-based injury and illness reporting form on August 1st
Employers can use the application to submit forms electronically.
Codes and Standards | Aug 1, 2017
Zoning that restricts housing construction also dampens other economic development
Land use restrictions reduce U.S. GDP by 9% annually.