Rolfes Bill Studying Green Building Incentives Passes Legislature

March 10, 2008

Olympia – Concurring with an amended version of SHB 3120, the House approved a bill assessing how the state may encourage the construction of energy-efficient buildings.

“We want to explore innovative, effective ways to incentivize conservation and stewardship in building construction,” explained prime sponsor, Rep. Christine Rolfes (D-Bainbridge Is.).  “The study will be broad in scope, considering how both tax and programmatic policies can be used to promote green buildings.”

The Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development is to work with the Department of Revenue to consider sales/use tax exemptions, business and occupation tax incentives, any resulting revenue impact of a tax credit, and cost-savings for energy-efficient structures.  The study is to be reported to the legislature by December 1, 2008.

“Communities around the state have been successful advancing green construction projects,” stated Rolfes.  “The goal of this study is to help build on our success, and make green communities viable throughout our state.”

As it passed the House, SHB 3120 focused on commercial and residential buildings.  The Senate Ways and Means Committee adopted an amendment expanding the study to include public buildings.

Green building is the practice of constructing healthier and more energy-efficient structures and can have significant environmental benefits.  According to the U.S. Green Building Council, buildings generate 30 percent of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions.

The bill will be forwarded to the governor for further consideration.