Directing the Joint State Government Commission to study and issue a report on the feasibility and implementation of methods and criteria for expanding construction requirements to use more sustainable building products in State-funded and private construction projects.
Impact
The proposed bill could have a significant impact on state laws related to construction and environmental standards. By promoting the use of sustainable materials, HR505 aims to enhance the quality and resilience of construction projects while potentially reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional building practices. The findings from the commission's report could lead to legislative changes that encourage or mandate the use of eco-friendly resources, thereby influencing future construction policies across the state.
Summary
House Resolution 505 (HR505) directs the Joint State Government Commission to study and report on the feasibility and implementation of expanding construction requirements to include more sustainable building products in both state-funded and private construction projects. The objective is to assess how sustainability in construction can be effectively integrated and the potential benefits it may bring to environmental efforts and state-funded initiatives.
Sentiment
General sentiment around HR505 appears to be supportive, as the shift towards sustainability in construction resonates with current environmental trends and public demand for greener initiatives. Proponents argue that the bill aligns with the need for responsible management of environmental resources and the long-term benefits of investing in sustainable practices. However, there may also be concerns about the initial costs associated with transitioning to sustainable materials, which could invoke caution among stakeholders in the construction sector.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the potential economic implications for the construction industry and property developers. While there is a strong push for increased sustainability, some critics may argue that the costs of implementing new materials and practices could lead to higher project expenses that may be passed on to consumers. The bill's success depends on balancing these economic concerns with the environmental benefits that sustainable building practices aim to achieve.
Directing the Joint State Government Commission to study and issue a report on the feasibility and implementation of methods and criteria for expanding construction requirements to use more sustainable building products in State-funded and private construction projects.
Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study on the feasibility of constructing geothermal systems in densely populated locations of this Commonwealth and to issue a report of its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly.
Enacts the "sustainable building materials act"; enacts into law components of legislation relating to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in construction; provides a sales tax exemption for certain low-carbon building materials (Part A); establishes a grant program for manufacturers of concrete for environmental product declarations (Part B).
Enacts the "sustainable building materials act"; enacts into law components of legislation relating to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in construction; provides a sales tax exemption for certain low-carbon building materials (Part A); establishes a grant program for manufacturers of concrete for environmental product declarations (Part B).
Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study regarding the feasibility and potential benefits of the development of offshore hydropower, solar and wind renewable energy generation systems on Lake Erie.
Establishment of global warming impact standards required for construction materials used in state buildings and roads, global warming standards integrated into procurement process, pilot programs established to report greenhouse gas emissions from manufacture of products, grant program established, technical advisory committee established, and reports required.
Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study on the projected costs in Pennsylvania of climate change adaptation and resilience measures needed to mitigate the projected impacts of certain climate-change-related events.