AGC Testifies on Global Warming- Seeks Tax Credit

Highway and Transportation Division Chairman Don Weaver presented AGC testimony to the House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming this week on the topic of "Constructing a Green Transportation Policy." Weaver used the opportunity to point out that studies show that improving highway infrastructure to allow vehicles to move more freely through existing bottlenecks will significantly reduce Green House Gas (GHG) emissions. He also said that improving existing transit systems or building new ones in congested urban areas will also reduce GHG emissions. AGC was specifically asked about steps that could be taken in the construction of transportation projects to reduce GHG emissions. Noting that, according to EPA,  construction accounts for only 0.86 percent of U.S. GHG emissions, Weaver said "this industry has a long history of developing construction techniques and practices that enhance our environment."  He recommended that "the federal government can assist in these practices by offering appropriate incentives." AGC's testimony also called for the creation of a federal investment tax credit for contractors to replace their existing diesel powered equipment with more energy efficient new models. He added that the tax credit would also aid the construction equipment manufacturers who have been reducing their work forces because of the drop in equipment purchases.