Passed Senate·Last action 103 days ago

Senate Backs Earthquake Safety Bill

Officially: National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Reauthorization Act of 2025

S. 320 aims to boost earthquake safety by updating the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program through 2028. Affects high-risk areas by funding research and retrofits.

Where it stands

Passed House. Now before the Senate.

This is the moment to act.

What this bill actually does

Reauthorization through 2028: Extends the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program for five more years.
Inclusion of tsunamis: Expands the definition of seismic events to cover earthquake-triggered tsunamis.
Tribal eligibility: Makes Tribal governments eligible for program activities like grants and technical assistance.

↓ Why your message matters here

This bill passed the House and is now before the Senate — this is the moment to act.

The debate

What people are saying about this bill

✓Arguments in support

Enhances Community Resilience: By mandating inventories and retrofitting incentives for high-risk buildings, the bill aims to reduce damage and downtime after earthquakes.
Improves Early Warning Systems: Funding for the Advanced National Seismic System and aftershock forecasts can save lives by providing timely alerts.
Expands Recovery Standards: New objectives for post-earthquake recovery focus on minimizing economic loss and ensuring quick reoccupancy of buildings.

✕Arguments against

Federal Spending Concerns: Some may worry about the increased federal spending amid budget deficits.
Implementation Challenges: The effectiveness of the bill depends on the successful coordination among multiple federal and local agencies.
Potential for Cost Overruns: Critics might be concerned about the possibility of exceeding the allocated budget, similar to other large-scale federal programs.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

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Introduced

Introduced in Senate

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Senate Committee

Under Senate committee consideration

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Senate Floor Vote

Voted on by Senate

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Passed Senate

Approved by Senate

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House Review

Sent to House for consideration

Latest: Message on Senate action sent to the House. (1/7/2026)

JAN 7

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Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

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Signed into Law

Signed by the President

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Senate Backs Earthquake Safety Bill

What people are saying about this bill

Legislative timeline

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