Promoting Resilient Buildings Act

This bill, known as the Promoting Resilient Buildings Act, amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to bolster residential resilience against natural disasters. It specifically defines "latest published editions" of relevant consensus-based codes as the two most recent versions, emphasizing the importance of modern standards in mitigation efforts. A key provision establishes a Residential Retrofit and Resilience Pilot Program , to be carried out by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This program will provide grants to States and local governments, which will then offer assistance to individuals for projects designed to increase the resilience of existing homes. These retrofits must align with the latest hazard-resistant designs and building codes, encompassing measures such as elevations, floodproofing, and seismic or wind retrofits. Up to 10 percent of annual predisaster hazard mitigation funds can be used for this pilot program, which will prioritize grants for individuals demonstrating financial need . The pilot program is slated to begin within one year of enactment and will conclude on September 30, 2030. FEMA is also mandated to submit a report detailing the program's outcomes, including cost avoidance and implementation challenges, within four years.