As energy prices continue to soar, green building has emerged as a frequent topic of debate on Capitol Hill. At least 29 bills that promote energy efficiency and environmental quality in buildings have been introduced in Congress since January 2005. But all are still pending and any that do not pass by the time Congress adjourns in October will have to be reintroduced next year.
Kara Rinaldi, director of policy at the Alliance to Save Energy, says rising energy prices and growing concerns about global warming have greatly advanced the green building movement in Congress. "All of those things combined make for a prime opportunity to introduce this type of legislation," she says.