The House Approves Building Code Legislation

Congress on Thursday approved legislation, the Community Building Code Administration Grant Act, that would create a national program to encourage local governments to administer and enforce building codes. The bill would require the federal government to award matching grants to local governments for, among other things, staff development and capital expenditures dedicated to administering building codes.  
 
The bill has wide support in the property/casualty insurance industry.  
 
“The evidence is clear and overwhelming that our nation can greatly reduce the disruption of lives and economic losses with the adoption and enforcement of building codes,” Marc Racicot, president of the American Insurance Assn. in Washington, said in a statement released after Wednesday’s vote.  
 
“Every year following a natural disaster, the federal government and the private sector pay billions in disaster relief to rebuild communities. Taking action before the earthquake, or hurricane, or tornado is the wise and prudent thing to do to help mitigate the damages.”

Published on July 11, 2008