Washington, D.C., January 12 , 2016 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) today issued the following statement on President Barack Obama’s final state of the union address this evening. Please attribute to AIA President Russell Davidson, FAIA:

“Both President Obama and South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, in her Republican response, spoke in broad strokes about their parties’ competing visions for the nation. But instead of offering competing ideas, there are still clear bipartisan initiatives both the President and Congress can undertake in his final year in office to grow jobs in the $1 trillion design and construction sector, which accounts for almost 6 percent of GDP:

• Promote investment in the buildings that make America what it is today by strengthening the Historic Tax Credit and other incentives that help our communities rebuild and prosper.
• Instead of letting incentives like the 179D Energy Efficient Commercial Building Tax Deduction expire regularly, the President and Congress should work for a long-term solution to encourage energy efficiency in construction.
• Student loan debt now totals $1.2 trillion; roughly $27,000 per capita. Architecture student loan debt tops out at $40,000. Young professionals’ earnings potential is being crushed by high student loan debt. The AIA urges the President to support, and for Congress to pass, the National Design Services Act, which lets architecture school graduates work off student debt with community service.
• Retain 2030 energy efficiency targets for federal buildings as part of truly consensus energy efficiency legislation. We are grateful that the president has threatened to veto current energy legislation that contains repeal of these targets and urge both sides to pass a truly consensus-driven energy bill.

“In summary, the president and Congress should use President Obama’s final year in office to work together closely, ensuring that the design and construction sector stays healthy, and continues to generate jobs. 

About The American Institute of Architects

Founded in 1857, the American Institute of Architects consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through nearly 300 state and local chapters, the AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards. The AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders, and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation and world. Visit  www.aia.org.


Contact:

John Schneidawind
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johnschneidawind@aia.org
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