The U.S. Congress recently passed the Disaster Recovery Reform Act (DRRA) and the Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Act.
The legislation supports the adoption and implementation of modern building codes, and will provide nearly $1.7 billion for communities struck by natural disasters in 2018. Pre-disaster mitigation grant funding is expected to quadruple. Communities that adopt and enforce modern codes would be more competitive applicants for that funding.
“Pre-disaster mitigation starts with the codes,” said International Code Council Chief Executive Officer Dominic Sims, CBO, in a news release. “The funds provided through the DRRA for updated building codes, adoption and implementation are essential for protecting our families, our lives and our investments.”
The legislation would also aid communities that—for lack of resources—have not updated their codes to more recent editions or are not enforcing the codes they have in place. For the first time, pre-disaster mitigation grants can be used for modern code adoption and enforcement.
Related Stories
Resiliency | Jun 1, 2016
Federal agencies boost standards for more resilient construction
HUD, FEMA, GSA, Army Corps of Engineers make policy changes.
Green | May 31, 2016
Miami Beach requires developers to meet green standards or pay a fee
Applies to structures larger than 7,000 sf.
Codes and Standards | May 27, 2016
Better enforcement needed for successful implementation of energy efficiency policies
Commercial buildings the focus of recent code initiatives.
Codes and Standards | May 25, 2016
LEED Dynamic is worth the effort, says commercial real estate executive
San Diego office tower is California’s first office building to receive LEED Dynamic plaque in recertification.
Codes and Standards | May 24, 2016
Ontario planning to spend $7 billion on wide-ranging climate change plan
Includes financial incentives to retrofit buildings.
Codes and Standards | May 23, 2016
Facility managers say Internet of Things, analytics will impact maintenance soon
More reliable data needed for optimal results from the technology.
Codes and Standards | May 20, 2016
Industry leaders call for wider use of bamboo as a building material
Benefits include seismic resiliency and sustainability.
Codes and Standards | May 19, 2016
Asphalt roofing group publishes updated shingle installation guide
Technical manual provides best practices for roofing professionals.
Codes and Standards | May 16, 2016
EPA proposes new stormwater discharge regulations for construction sites
Would apply to sites of one or more acres.
Roofing | May 16, 2016
New guide focused on increasing energy and structural performance with raised-heel trusses
Higher trusses simplify attic ventilation, leave more space for insulation.
