Variation in state seismic mitigation policies: a comparative analysis of seismic risk and policy development

Risks associated with earthquakes vary widely from state to state. California and the western United States are widely recognized as having the potential for significant damages and loss of life from earthquakes, however all states have some degree of seismic risk. Considering that public safety and the general welfare of citizens are paramount responsibilities of state government, some states have adopted policies designed to reduce risks from hazards such as earthquakes. California, Missouri and a few other states have embraced policy development as a key method to mitigate against earthquake hazards. Alaska, Washington and a number of other states with significant seismic risk have a much lower level of policy coverage. Through the compilation and consideration of hazard mitigation policies for 47 states, this study examines the role of earthquake related policy development and implementation relative to individual states' seismic risk. The results of this analysis indicate that a number of states have below optimal policy coverage which suggests that factors other than seismic risk likely influence policy development.