February 20, 2004—BOMA International is urging members and other stakeholders to contact their US Senators to indicate their support for the Energy Bill (HR 6) still pending in the Senate. According to BOMA, which continues to support the effort to enact a national energy policy, the bill’s chances of being passed are diminishing, and supporters are considering compromises in order to gain a few more votes.
In order to have a chance in the Senate, supporters agree that the cost of the bill must be reduced. Also, some Senate Democrats would reportedly support the bill without its controversial provision that protects manufacturers of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) from liability.
BOMA urges its members and other stakeholders to voice their support for the energy efficiency tax deduction that is included in HR 6. In its present form, the bill provides tax incentives for energy efficiency upgrades in commercial buildings. According to BOMA, building owners can earn a tax deduction of up to $1.50 per square foot for energy efficiency upgrades in lighting, HVAC, and the building envelope if the performance of those upgrades exceeds the ASHRAE 90.1 Standard by 50%. Partial credit is also available. A model letter can be found in BOMA’s Legislative Action Center.
Based on a report from BOMA International
