[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 6]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 7994]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




INTRODUCTION OF LEGISLATION TO AMEND THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1986 
 TO PROVIDE A CREDIT AGAINST TAX FOR HURRICANE AND TORNADO MITIGATION 
                              EXPENDITURES

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                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 4, 2013

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, today I introduced the Hurricane and 
Tornado Mitigation Investment Act of 2013. This legislation seeks to 
encourage individuals and businesses to take proactive preparedness 
measures to protect their property from potential storm damage. Recent 
tornado outbreaks across the country this spring, and the impending 
start of the Atlantic hurricane season, remind us that weather-related 
emergencies and disasters are ever-present. The bill would amend the 
Internal Revenue Code to allow individual and business taxpayers in 
certain states a tax credit for a portion of their qualified hurricane 
and tornado mitigation property expenditures for any taxable year. They 
would be eligible when they take steps to improve the strength of a 
roof deck attachment; create a secondary water barrier; improve the 
durability of a roof covering; brace gable-end walls; reinforce the 
connections between a roof and supporting wall; protect against 
windborne debris; or protect exterior doors and garages. In short, this 
legislation will help communities mitigate against future weather 
related hazards. Taking mitigation steps now can make a huge 
difference. In many cases, it may help to reduce loss of life and 
property damage, while saving money and reducing insurance rates in the 
long run. I look forward to working with my colleagues to move this 
legislation through Congress.

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