Stronger FEMA Building Codes Save Lives—Trump Says No

President Donald Trump’s recent directive to halt the implementation of stronger building codes for disaster-prone areas is a perilous decision that undermines public safety and economic resilience. This action not only disregards empirical evidence supporting the efficacy of modern building standards but also exposes communities to heightened risks from natural disasters. It is imperative that Congress and state governments intervene to uphold and enforce robust building codes that protect lives and property. Studies have consistently demonstrated that updated building codes significantly mitigate damage during natural disasters. For instance, a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) study revealed that modern building codes have prevented $32 billion in losses for homes constructed since 2000. By abandoning the adoption of these enhanced standards, the administration is effectively increasing the vulnerability of structures to catastrophic events such as floods, hurricanes, and wildfires. This not only endangers residents but also escalates recovery costs and strains emergency response resources.  This pattern of deregulation reflects a broader agenda that prioritizes short-term economic gains over long-term safety and sustainability. In 2017, President Trump rescinded the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard, which required infrastructure projects to account for future flood risks, thereby compromising the resilience of federally funded developments. Such actions erode the nation’s preparedness against escalating climate-related threats and undermine its leadership in promoting resilient infrastructure. To counteract these detrimental policies, legislative and local authorities must champion and enforce stringent building codes, ensuring that communities are fortified against the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters.