The lack of data and research on the benefits of mitigation and strong building codes also pose a barrier to implementing safer building practices, he said.

According to Mr. Reinhold's testimony:

oA majority of local communities have no code, or have adopted the latest model building codes with local amendments that weaken their provisions.

oWhile there is more widespread adoption of model building codes and standards for commercial properties, there are still many local jurisdictions where code adoption is nonexistent or woefully out of date.

oA lack of uniform and strong enforcement, even in communities that have adopted the latest standards, means building performance is less predictable and the levels of risk vary dramatically from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.

Mr. Reinhold testified that the federal government could initiate a number of incentives that encourage states to adopt and enforce statewide building codes without local amendments that weaken the minimum requirements.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency could use code adoption and enforcement as criteria for providing additional pre-and post-disaster mitigation funds to states. "FEMA support for wind field analyses could help better communicate to the public expected winds as well as the actual experience after severe storms," he said.