Establishing a Federal Flood Risk Management Standard
Feb 4, 2015
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: Jan 30, 2015
Published on: Feb 4, 2015
Feb 4, 2015
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: Jan 30, 2015
Published on: Feb 4, 2015
Summary
Sets up a new rule for federal projects to be built stronger and higher to better withstand flooding, which is getting worse due to climate change.
What problem does this solve?
Flooding is getting worse and damaging communities and federal property. This order creates a new, stronger building standard for federal projects to make them more resilient to future floods.
What does this order do?
Establishes a new Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS)
Creates a flexible framework to make communities and federal property stronger against flooding by requiring projects to be built to a higher standard.
Updates floodplain definitions
Requires agencies to define floodplains using modern climate science, by adding 2-3 feet of height to the base flood level, or by using the 0.2 percent annual chance flood area.
Requires use of natural solutions
Encourages federal agencies to use natural systems and ecosystem processes, like preserving wetlands, when considering alternatives for projects in floodplains.
Creates a public input process
Directs FEMA to publish draft guidelines for public comment and hold public meetings before the new standard is put into effect.
Defines 'critical actions'
Adds a definition for 'critical action' as any activity where even a small chance of flooding would be too great, requiring a higher level of protection.
Mandates regular reviews
Requires the standard to be reviewed each year and updated at least every five years to make sure it is based on the best available science.
Who does this affect?
- Federal agencies
- State and local governments
- Developers of federally funded projects
What is the real world impact?
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Protecting taxpayer investments
Ensures that federally funded projects like buildings and roads are built to last longer by protecting them from increased flood risks, saving money on future repairs.
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Adapting to climate change
Formally requires federal agencies to consider the future effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels and more extreme weather, when planning new projects.
When does this start?
This order became effective on January 30, 2015, but full implementation by agencies depends on a public comment period and the release of new guidelines.
Agency implementation plans
Agencies must submit an implementation plan within 30 days after the public comment period for the new guidelines closes.
Standard updates
The Water Resources Council must issue an update to the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard at least every 5 years.