Implementation of Seismic Hazard Mitigation in the Central United States: The Policy - Setting Role of the States

This research examines the potential for state-level seismic hazard mitigation policies in the seven member states of the Central United States Earthquake Consortium. The federal government requires mitigation to be a significant component of emergency preparedness activities, but such activities are only beginning to be implemented in the Central U.S. This paper describes current activities by the seven states and identifies future needs. The research found that awareness and preparedness activities have increased markedly over the past few years, five of the states now have state seismic building code requirements, several states have active seismic advisory councils, and some states are using innovative funding methods to finance seismic zonation mapping. The greatest future needs are to continue these efforts as well as initiate programs for existing building hazards and non-structural hazards. Programs should emphasize critical facilities.