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FEMA unveils new rules for buildings in flood zones
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced finalized rules used to guide federal agencies on how to manage flood risks across the country.
The new FEMA rules finalized Wednesday will factor in projected future sea level rise in flood risk estimates.
And under the new rules, construction using FEMA funds must either elevate the structures above projected flooding or relocate the site to a safer area.
The Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS) requires agencies to develop resilience and flood protection plans for federally funded projects and buildings, including necessary building dimensions to protect from flooding risks.
The initial rule was proposed under the Obama administration before the Trump administration withdrew it. The agency resumed drafting the rule following an executive order from President Biden.
Under the finalized rule, FEMA will also cover any applicable federal costs for implementing the standards. The standard also applies to projects involving safeguards against flooding, such as structural elevations.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said on a call with reporters that the standards will require participants to account for “current, foreseeable and future flood threats.”
Another official said the standard will increase the number of feet structures can be elevated and broaden floodplains. It will also allow the consideration of future flooding threats, rather than relying solely on currently existing risks.
“Taking forward-looking, effective steps to increase resilience before disaster strikes will save lives, property, critical infrastructure, and taxpayer money,” Mayorkas said in a statement.
“The Federal Flood Risk Management Standard ensures that FEMA-funded projects meet that mandate. We cannot be passive as climate change threatens the safety and security of the American people and our homeland.”
Welcome to The Hill’s Energy & Environment newsletter, we’re Rachel Frazin and Zack Budryk — keeping you up to speed on the policies impacting everything from oil and gas to new supply chains.
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