Washington State House Democrats

Washington state first in nation with green building law

Dunshee: This reform is good news for schools, workers and taxpayers

March 30, 2005

OLYMPIA – Every year, taxpayers spend billions for new schools, universities and prisons. On Wednesday, the House voted 78-19 to make Washington state the first in the nation with a law making sure public buildings are built smart.

"This reform is better for our students," said Rep. Hans Dunshee (D-Snohomish), author of the reform. "Better for workers. And better for taxpayers."

Dunshee said high-performance buildings – including such features as natural sunlight instead of artificial light – are proven to:

"It’s common sense," Dunshee said. "People perform better – and don’t get sick as often – when they have natural sunlight and fresh air coming through windows instead of the blue fluorescent glow of a windowless cubicle farm."

Architect Allison Capen of Seattle says green buildings create healthier workplaces and classrooms that boost productivity and learning. She also points out smart building means lower monthly energy and utility bills.

"Green buildings end up saving a lot of money," Capen says.

The new Clackamas High School was built smart; now taxpayers save $80,000 a year just on utility costs.

The House and Senate passed identical high-performance building laws (House Bill 1272 and Senate Bill 5509). The House passed the Senate version today, sending it to the governor to be signed into law.

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Learn more about high performance buildings

US Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Program: http://www.eere.energy.gov/buildings/

BUILDING AMERICA: http://www.eere.energy.gov/buildings/building_america/