The American Institute of Architects Issues Statement on Obama Administration’s Fiscal 2012 Budget

Proposal Increases Investment in Energy Conservation by $1 Billion

Washington, D.C. – February 14, 2011 – (RealEstateRama) — The American Institute of Architects (AIA) today issued the following statement on the fiscal 2012 budget President Obama presented to Congress this morning.

This statement should be attributed to AIA 2011 President Clark Manus, FAIA:

“The President’s budget, in effect, increases the value of investment in energy conservation in commercial buildings by roughly $1 billion. That represents a significant increase from the current tax deduction of $1.80 per square foot now on the books and is an increase for which the AIA has been advocating in order to encourage energy conservation. Energy conservation isn’t a political agenda but rather a sound policy that can save money and resources, ultimately making the US less dependent on foreign sources of energy.”
“The President’s budget also launches a new loan guarantee program to increase financing opportunities for universities, schools, and hospitals and creates a $100 million “Race to Green” competition for State and municipal governments to implement innovative approaches to building codes, standards, and performance measures.” The AIA co-sponsorship of an emerging green code (IgCC) is consistent with this approach.

“While we still have much of the budget to analyze, we think the Better Buildings initiative contained in the budget represents a major step forward in implementing policies for which the AIA has been advocating for some time.”

“We look forward to working with the Administration and Congress to make these budget proposals a reality.”

About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes.  By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change.  AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org.  Twitter: http://twitter.com/AIA_Media F

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Contact:
John Schneidawind
202-626-7457