Hazard mitigation planning reduces loss of life and property by minimizing the impact of disasters. It begins with state, tribal and local governments identifying natural disaster risks and vulnerabilities that are common in their area. After identifying these risks, they develop long-term strategies for protecting people and property from similar events. Mitigation plans are key to breaking the cycle of disaster damage and reconstruction.
Policy Updates
Hazard Mitigation Assistance and Mitigation Planning Final Rule
On Sept. 10, 2021, FEMA published in the Federal Register the final rule that includes an update to the Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs and mitigation planning regulations to incorporate the requirements enacted by the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 (BW-12) and reflect uniform administrative requirements.
The final rule will be effective on October 1, 2021. The updates replace outdated terms and definitions with similar terms and definitions that better align with Code of Federal Regulations Title 2 part 200: Uniform Administrative Guidance and the Hazard Mitigation Assistance Guidance. These revisions simplify terminology and improve consistency among FEMA’s hazard mitigation grant programs.
Updates to State and Local Mitigation Planning Policies
The Mitigation Planning Program is updating the state and local mitigation planning policies, also known as the Plan Review Guides, to reflect recent legislative changes and policy updates. Throughout July 2020, FEMA gathered ideas from states, local governments, and the public. An analysis and summary of these listening sessions is available online.
Sign up to receive mitigation planning updates or to receive additional notifications regarding the policy updates.
News and Announcements
The American Planning Association and Association of State Floodplain Managers invites you to register for the Planning Information Exchange (PIE) webinar, “The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: A Primer for Planners and Floodplain Managers” scheduled for Dec. 15, 11 a.m.- noon. Eastern Time.
One of the most talked-about legislative actions of the year, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act was signed by the president in November 2021. But how does the bill impact local floodplain managers and planners? What are the new federal funding opportunities around hazard mitigation? Our team of policy experts examine the most important and impactful federal infrastructure funding passed as part of the act.
Register for Planning Information Exchange (PIE) Webinar
Eligible participants will receive 1 CM toward AICP and 1 CEC for CFM.
Presenters:
Samantha Medlock,senior counsel, the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis
Jason Jordan, AICP, public affairs director, American Planning Association.
View Recordings of Prior Webinars
FEMA Region 9 produced the “Level Up Audio Project” audio series to highlight individuals who are making hazard mitigation planning and action a priority in their work and communities in the Southwest, West Coast, and Pacific. Each episode features short conversations with practitioners who share their stories, best practices and lessons learned in the Southwest, West Coast, and Pacific.
Listen to an Episode
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Access our handbooks and resources geared toward state, local and tribal governments.
Browse stories from across the country chronicling best practices in mitigation efforts and funding applications.
See when a plan is required for state, tribal, territorial and local officials applying to FEMA for assistance.
Resources to help implement, integrate and maintain hazard mitigation plans.
See quarterly metrics and interactive maps displaying the status of current mitigation plans in the United States
Learn about the laws regulating hazard mitigation plans and access policy and guidance documents.
Contact
Planners should contact their state officials for assistance but may also contact:
For resources and information on how to integrate individuals with disabilities and others with access and functional needs into hazard mitigation planning, contact FEMA’s Office of Disability Integration and Coordination.