Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) issued the below statement after the House passed legislation to protect communities from future landslides.

“The 2014 mudslide that killed 43 people in Northwest Washington forever changed Oso, Darrington, Arlington and the surrounding community. While Oso has come a long way since 2014, these communities will never forget the tragedy and those who died.” said Larsen. “I applaud Representative DelBene for her legislation to protect communities from the threat of future landslides.”

The National Landslide Preparedness Act directs the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to establish a National Landslide Hazards Reduction Program to identify and understand landslide hazards and risks, establishes a national 3-D Elevation Program to enhance the collection of elevation data nationwide and helps improve communication and emergency preparedness.

“Having a greater understanding of landslide risks will improve federal preparedness efforts and better protect public infrastructure and communities and save lives.”

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