Need for Resilient Construction Highlighted by Lawmakers, Advocates

Proposed tax benefits for both communities and consumers

Using their own experience from dealing with natural disasters in their home state, Representatives Daniel Webster (R-10) and Mario Diaz-Balart (R-25) of Florida called for resilient construction and design to be utilized throughout the country.

During a forum with the Portland Cement Association and the National Ready Mix Concrete Association, both representatives pointed to reductions in insurance costs that could be obtained by homeowners for utilizing resilient construction techniques. These techniques would allow for a community to minimize costs after a disaster, and residents to quickly move back to their daily lives. Recently, Rep. Diaz-Balart introduced legislation that would provide a tax credit to homeowners and business owners with property that implement fortified structures that are better capable to handle disasters.

When a natural disaster strikes taxpayer dollars are utilized to rebuild communities. After Superstorm Sandy, Congress authorized $9.7 billion to cover insurance claims filed by residents affected by the wide ranging damage of the storm. The disruption also inhibits businesses from their normal profits from goods or services, and potentially destroy vital infrastructure needs.

Communities built to last start with comprehensive planning, including stricter building codes that produce robust structures with long service lives. Studies show that for every dollars used for mitigation results in $4 savings after a disaster.  More durable buildings with high-performance features including better disaster resistance, help promote community continuity, making cities and towns stronger, and better able to successfully weather any challenge.

About PCA

Based in Washington, D.C., with offices in Skokie, Illinois, the Portland Cement Association represents cement companies in the United States. It conducts market development, engineering, research, education, and public affairs programs. More information on PCA programs is available at www.cement.org.