Legislation and Trends As the result of an increased awareness of the possibilities for campus violence, institutions nationwide have rededicated their efforts to assess risks and to strengthen emergency response plans. New legislation related to emergency preparedness can have consequences for campus housing, including the increased costs associated with new or enhanced operating systems and equipment and facility improvements. Budgeting for college housing is a very dynamic process, and revenues and expenses can be influenced in ways that defy predictability. “There’s the ongoing challenge of having a long range plan for renovation totally sidelined by an unforeseen emergency that involves the safety of residents,” says Boykin. “And it’s not just incidents on our own campus that affect our spending, as we respond to incidents on any other college or university campus. In the aftermath of a crisis or tragedy funds are suddenly – and appropriately – redirected. After a residence hall fire we spend money on fire safety audits and upgrade our fire safety systems. After a mold scare we spend money to improve air quality and reduce moisture in our halls. After a shooting incident we direct funds to ensure greater safety and security measures. After a power outage or a sewage back-up we spend more money ensuring our utilities are workinghttp://www.map-works.com http://www.map-works.com