Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Dina Titus of Nevada’s Third District spoke on the House floor today on an amendment she introduced with Congresswoman Betsy Markey of Colorado to H.R. 2187, the 21st Century Green High-Performing Public School Facilities Act.  The amendment establishes an advisory council to recommend federal policies that will help states make schools green, and passed with broad bipartisan support by a vote of 270 to 160.  Below are Titus’ remarks as delivered.

“This amendment, which I am offering with my friend and colleague from Colorado, Ms. Markey, will establish an advisory council to the Secretary of Education on green, high-performing schools.

“The council will advise the Secretary on the impact of green, high-performing schools on several outcomes including teaching and learning, health effects, energy costs, and environment impacts.  The council will also work with the Secretary to identify federal policies that are barriers to helping states make schools green and high-performing and it will recommend federal policies to increase the number of such schools.  Additionally, the council will provide technical assistance to states and school districts.

“The 21st Century Green High-Performing Public School Facilities Act is an important bill that will provide our students with a healthy, safe learning environment, will create jobs, and will promote environmental responsibility.  At the same time, it is moving us closer to the clean energy economy of the future.  Our amendment will provide the Secretary with the tools he needs to ensure the opportunities outlined in this important bill are available to as many schools as possible.  It will also ensure that the upgrades made to school facilities meet the highest standards of quality and that the Secretary is always getting feedback about how to improve upon the program.”

#  #  #

Tags: education, energy