Harvey, Irma, and Trump's Reckless Call - Tell Congress to Restore Flood Risk Management Standards
10 days before Harvey made landfall and brought devastation to tens of thousands of Americans, President Trump issued a reckless executive order that affects all federal agencies and contractors involved in the rebuilding effort.
He rescinded the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard—an order President Obama issued in 2015—that aimed to improve America's preparedness and resilience against flooding, and ensure that taxpayer dollars are used wisely.
Tell Congress: Enough is enough. Americans deserve to know that rebuilding is done well and is taking into account how climate change is exacerbating flood risks.
We can't wait: Restore flood risk management standards
Dear [Decision Maker],
I'm writing today to strongly ask you to pass any flood risk amendments in the appropriations package that will prohibit funding for President Trump's executive order to rescind the 2015 Federal Flood Risk Management Standard, and will keep these crucial protections intact. The House's refusal to consider these amendments was a serious mistake that puts Americans at risk. Similar legislation needs to come to the House & Senate floor and be passed as soon as possible.
This standard--implemented in response to Congressional action that tied use of recovery funds for Superstorm Sandy to improved flood standards for rebuilding--ensures that federal agencies and contractors are using the best information and building federally-funded infrastructure to withstand floods, as well as preserving natural floodplains that can help protect surrounding communities.
The people affected by Harvey and Irma don't just need to rebuild their homes. They need to build stronger, safer homes that can withstand similar disasters in the future--and can save their lives in the process. It is the most effective use of taxpayer dollars, and it is the protection Americans deserve.
[Your comments here]
Please keep our communities safe, and pass these crucial amendments as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
