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House Passes Bill Requiring Use Of Green Building Standards
The House this week passed House Bill 444 (M.Smith-D-Allegheny) requiring all buildings constructed or refurbished with state funds to be "green" -- environmentally responsible and energy efficient.

"I believe this proposal would help guarantee that state funds are used in the most efficient and responsible way possible while providing immediate and future benefits to us all," Rep. Smith said. "Climate change and environmental issues must continue to drive our investments, and I believe that we can continue to grow our economy, save state tax dollars and protect the environment by embracing smart development strategies like green buildings."

The lawmaker said that by increasing the demand for environmentally friendly building materials and furnishings, the state would be investing in its own economy by making use of local, renewable energy sources rather than foreign energy.

Rep. Smith added that more green buildings would produce significant cost savings over the life of the structures through lower utility and power costs and increased worker productivity, while also reducing air pollution created by the buildings. He said the Department of Environmental Protection will monitor the energy and environmental benefits realized under the legislation.

"In addition to higher energy efficiency, green buildings have proven to have a positive impact on the health and productivity of people who live and work in them, cutting down on health-related problems," Rep. Smith said.

Another supporter of the legislation, Rep. Kate Harper (R-Montgomery), said, "Pennsylvania's government must lead by example to help make green building the rule rather than the exception. Green building is friendlier to the environment because it saves energy, and saving energy saves money. This is a very worthwhile investment in our Commonwealth's future."

7/20/2009

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