House Energy and Commerce Committee Begins Climate Change Hearings

AGC's analysis of climate change legislation shows a significant impact on construction in the form of higher energy prices, higher raw materials prices, potential EPA regulation of land use (including local planning decisions) and transportation planning due to the proposed cap and trade program that would create a market for emissions allowances. While climate change is a major focus of both President Obama and Congressional leaders, the committee process has thus far found a less than unanimous endorsement of cap and trade as the best way to regulate green house gases. The Senate chose to not endorse a cap and trade solution earlier by a vote of 67 to 31.