Obama signs order for higher flood risk standards

All federal investments in and affecting floodplains must meet higher flood risk standards, according to an executive order signed by President Barack Obama.

The order is aimed at establishing flood standards to reduce the risk and cost of future flood disasters.

The Reinsurance Association of America, which has long been engaged with Congress and the Administration to identify effective solutions to increase the resilience of homes, businesses and communities as a means to reduce the exposure of people and property to natural catastrophes, lauded this action.

Frank Nutter, president of the RAA, said: “Today, the Administration again demonstrated its commitment to community resilience. For too long, our society has encouraged people to live in areas prone to natural hazards, especially flood.

“The President’s Climate Action Plan, and in particular, the new flood standard, will help stem the tide of rising property loss and increased risk to our citizens. By providing communities and Federal agencies with incentives and standards, the Administration has rightly raised the bar and made community resilience a priority and a public value.”