(Washington, D.C. June 6)
The U.S. Senate Environment Committee today voted 14 to 4 to approve the bipartisan High Performance Green Buildings Act of 2007.
The amended bill co-authored by Senators Lautenberg (D-NJ) and Warner (R-VA) allows EPA to offer grants to states to develop voluntary school environmental quality plans, including addressing a range of common problems that affect occupant environmental health. EPA is also directed to develop voluntary guidelines for school siting to avoid wetlands, swamps, and proximity to hazardous sites.
"This is a great day for children, for families, for local schools and the people who work there," said Claire Barnett, founding Executive Director of Healthy Schools Network and coordinator for the Coalition for Healthier Schools.
On any one day, 20% of America is in a school building.
"We are grateful to Senators Lautenberg and Warner for their leadership, and also wish to thank retired U.S. Senator Jim Jeffords (I-VT) who introduced the original legislation several years ago."
For more information about Healthy Schools Network, see www.healthyschools.org
Claire L. Barnett, Executive Director
Healthy Schools Network, Inc.
518-462-0632
Coordinator, Coalition for Healthier Schools
