WASHINGTON–Legislation designed to encourage communities to establish and enforce strong building codes by offering federal grants to do so was introduced in both the House and Senate yesterday.

The legislation would establish a Community Building Code Administration Grant Program, which would provide awards to local governments for building code administration and enforcement. It was introduced as HR 4461 in the House by Rep. Dennis Moore, D-Kan., and as S. 2458 in the Senate by Sen. Mary Landrieu, D-La.

“As co-chair of the Congressional Hazards Caucus, I'm well aware of the damaging effects that natural disasters can have on our communities,” said Rep. Moore.

“Our government is supposed to set priorities and invest taxpayer money wisely. I firmly believe that this legislation will help ensure the safety of buildings across the country and ultimately will reduce the cost to the American taxpayer after a disaster,” he added.

Rep. Moore's office noted a 2005 study conducted by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that for every $1 spent on mitigation at the federal level, the American taxpayer saves $4 in disaster assistance.

Currently there are no federal funds for the administration of building codes, although Rep. Moore's office noted that funding from development or hazard mitigation programs have been used for this purpose in the past. However, that funding is generally directed toward infrastructure projects, leaving states to cover the costs of enforcing building codes themselves.

The Community Building Code Administration Grant Program, under the legislation, would provide funding to help local and state authorities to enact and enforce building codes.

Specifically, the bill authorizes the program to give out $100 million over a five-year period with awards capped at $1 million per recipient jurisdiction. States and towns will also be required to match a portion of the funds awarded, and the bill outlines eligible uses of funds and selection criteria, with preference offered to governments in financial distress.

The bills were sent for consideration to the House Financial Services Committee and the Senate Finance Committee.

Insurance industry groups offered their support for the legislation.

Justin Roth, senior federal affairs director for the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies, said the legislation is “vital to enhance and promote safer homes and businesses, especially in areas vulnerable to natural catastrophes.” He added that “stronger building codes are key to protecting lives and property.”

Dennis Kelly, a spokesman for the American Insurance Association, said the AIA also supports the legislation.