*** CMS 9629871 Mittler Following Hurricane Hugo, the Loma earthquake, Hurricane Andrew, Hurricane Iniki, and the Northridge earthquake, some states undertook significant disaster mitigation initiatives while others did not. This study examines why and how several states decided to take on responsibilities for seismic and hurricane safety. Fourteen case studies will be conducted in these states involving the collection of detailed information from numerous sources including key policy officials, commissions, agencies and state associations. This study is especially timely because recently enacted and proposed natural disaster mitigation laws have sought to create or improve the capacity of states to develop mitigation policies and programs. In addition to its theoretical contribution, one possible benefit of the study will be to shed light on how states can improve their ability to transfer useful technologies initiated by other states.***
