NAR fights labeling on existing home stock

The House recently passed H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act, which has caused a lot of controversy and confusion among REALTORS® across the country. While the country was focusing on “cap and trade,” REALTORS® were focusing on a proposed energy performance labeling program for all structures sold in the U.S.

We all have opinions about energy labeling but the rule of thumb in the real estate industry is that this is a “go to the mattresses” type of issue. And that is exactly what the National Association of REALTORS® did. Through their lobbying efforts, NAR was able to favorably change the bill. The current version, which is now in the Senate, would ONLY require labels on new construction.

NAR also worked to ensure that the bill prohibits the EPA from regulating carbon emissions from residential and commercial buildings; provides property owners with financial incentives to make property improvements and reduce energy bills; and establishes green building incentives for HUD housing.

REALTORS® still have a lot of work to do. The bill must still clear the Senate and maintain the provisions put forth by NAR. As the bill makes its journey through the legislative process, NAR will have more opportunities to address unresolved issues, such as building energy code targets.

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Tags: labeling, NAR

This entry was posted on Thursday, July 2nd, 2009 at 8:30 am and is filed under Government Affairs, NAR. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.