HSC Press Releases

For Immediate Release
Contact: Tara Kennon, 312-419-1810
tara@healthyschoolscampaign.org

Illinois State Senate Passes Energy Efficient School Construction Act
Bill Would Encourage Green Building Choices for Schools

Chicago, March 30, 2007 – Illinois leaders may soon have a greater incentive to make healthy, energy-efficient design choices when building new schools.

The Illinois Senate voted overwhelmingly in favor of Energy Efficient School Construction Act, SB 505, with a vote of 48-8.

“Building schools in a way that’s energy-efficient and healthy is simply the right thing to do, especially for schools,” said Mark Bishop, deputy director of the Healthy Schools Campaign, an independent not-for-profit organization dedicated to healthy school environments. “Our senators understand that these choices save schools money on their energy bills, create more productive learning environments, and create an environment for learning about sustainability and environmental stewardship.”

The bill would allow Illinois school districts to receive an additional 5 percent in state funding for projects that meet specific healthy and energy-efficient building standards.

This increase in funding would cover the initial additional cost of incorporating building features designed with educational objectives and energy savings in mind.

HSC is working with House leaders to introduce the bill in the House.

The Energy Efficient School Construction Act was introduced by State Rep. John Cullerton (D-Chicago). It is supported by a coalition of allies that includes the American Institute of Architects, Illinois Council; American Lung Association of Illinois; Environment Illinois; Environmental Law and Policy Center; Healthy Schools Campaign; Illinois Environmental Council; and Illinois PIRG.

Full details and bill status updates:
http://www.healthyschoolscampaign.org/eeschools

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The Healthy Schools Campaign, an independent not-for-profit organization, is the leading authority on healthy school environments and a voice for people who care about our environment, our children and education. Our mission is to advocate for policies and model programs that allow students and staff members to learn and work in a healthy school environment.