Washington, D.C. – The Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction, a federal incentive that provides a deduction of $1.80 per square foot for the design and construction of energy efficient commercial buildings, is set to expire at end of the year. As Congress returns for a crucial four week period before the November elections, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) strongly encourages the extension of this deduction beyond 2008.

Extending tax incentives for commercial construction will provide an immediate stimulus to the design and construction industry. The design and construction industry accounts for nearly one in ten dollars of United States GDP, creates millions of jobs and supports millions of small businesses. In order to help get America’s economy back on track, Congress must pursue policies to help invigorate the building sector.

“Currently, many developers are reluctant to pursue new commercial projects because of uncertainty over whether federal tax incentives will remain in place beyond this year,” said Paul Mendelsohn, AIA vice president, Government and Community Relations. “Ensuring that the commercial buildings tax deduction remains in place for years to come will remove this worry, help provide a much needed jolt to the economy and address critical environmental concerns.”

Support Funding for School Construction and Renovation
Earlier this summer, the House of Representatives approved a bill that would provide billions in federal dollars for the modernization, renovation and repair of schools across America. This legislation, the 21st Century High-Performing Public Schools Facilities Act (HR 3021), should be passed by Congress this fall. Schools across the country are in desperate need of renovation. HR 3021 will direct billions in federal funding to states and local education agencies to revitalize these aging schools, stimulating the creation of thousands of design and construction jobs. Passing school modernization funding will help energize the building industry and create economic activity in all 50 states, while also creating better learning environments for students nationwide.

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