For 25 years, FEMA has played a vital role in developing building codes to enhance the durability of homes against natural disasters. However, the Trump Administration has ordered FEMA to withdraw from recent efforts to improve these standards, raising concerns about public safety and resilience. Previously submitted recommendations that focused on safety against severe weather and flood risks will no longer bear FEMA's name, reflecting a shift in policy influenced by criticisms of building regulations by Republican leaders. Such a move is alarming to disaster experts, given the proven effectiveness of modern codes in preventing substantial damage.
Strengthening building codes has historically been opposed by the homebuilding and construction industries over concerns about the cost.
In recent years, Republican leaders have criticized FEMA and building codes, saying the regulations are burdensome.
Studies show modern building codes have saved billions of dollars in damage from natural disasters.
FEMA is an important partner in making sure our country is resilient in the future.
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