The Tampa, Fla.-based Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), is backing President Obama’s recently signed executive order, Establishing a Federal Earthquake Risk Management Standard, which he signed last week. IBHS supports the administration’s efforts to create more resilient communities in areas at risk for earthquakes.

The new standard requires federal agencies to use earthquake-resistant design provisions in the most current building codes when constructing new structures or renovating existing buildings. This will have numerous positive effects in earthquake-prone areas, according to IBHS, including improving the strength and durability of buildings, reducing risks to people, reducing recovery costs after earthquakes and speeding up the recovery time for communities.

“IBHS is an enthusiastic proponent of strong, well-enforced building codes that protect the health, safety and welfare of the people living and working in our nation’s homes and businesses,” says Julie Rochman, president and CEO. “We also strongly endorse the whole-community approach to improve resilience to earthquakes and other natural disasters highlighted by the administration during last week’s Earthquake Resilience Summit at the White House. This approach brings together scientists, engineers, public policymakers, businesses and non-profit organizations to develop and implement appropriate measures, which is critical to creating resilient communities that are stronger, safer and more disaster-resistant.”

The order can be read in its entirety here.