WASHINGTON--Industry groups are voicing their support for legislation introduced in the House Monday that would encourage states to strengthen their building codes.

"The purpose for this legislation is to provide incentives for states to adopt higher building code standards, which will ultimately help preserve property, promote public safety, and make Americans and America's communities safer," said Rep. Doris Matsui, D-Calif., in introducing the legislation. The bill, known as H.R. 3926 or the Building Code State Incentive Act of 2007, is also sponsored by Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Fla.

"Building codes use a tried and true format to document the reasonable steps that can be taken while new construction is underway to protect our neighbors and their communities from risks that, because they can be foreseen, can and should be minimized," Rep. Matsui added.