Public Policy Overview

Both enactment and proper enforcement of laws and regulations greatly influence the effectiveness of property loss mitigation efforts. In addition, a variety of private and public sector incentives can, and do, motivate individuals, businesses, and communities to actively embrace meaningful mitigation techniques.

IBHS is an applied research and communications organization with expertise in a variety of mitigation-related public policy areas, including:

• improving building codes and other prescriptive mitigation tools;
• motivating individuals and communities to utilize proven, voluntary mitigation techniques, such as "code-plus" construction;
• properly retrofitting existing homes and commercial structures to greatly improve resiliency against natural and man-made risks;
• small and mid-size business continuity planning; and,
• creating land use plans that consider natural hazards and site conditions, as well as real risks/costs associated with development and redevelopment.

As a result, IBHS studies and educational materials are regularly referenced by loss prevention and reduction advocates in public policy debates around the country. The Institute's work also is routinely relied upon by public policymakers at the local, state and national levels. Because IBHS is a non-profit organization, the Institute's direct participation in lobbying activities is extremely limited and consistent with Internal Revenue Code rules. Within this context, IBHS representatives may testify at legislative hearings at the request of Congressional or state legislative committees.

Copies of several IBHS reports, commentaries, and testimony are provided to the right. Further information on these topics is also available in the appropriate program or peril-specific section of our web site.