Formed in 2008, the Caucus heightens awareness among federal policymakers about the major impacts that buildings have on the health, safety, and welfare of the general public, and the opportunities to design, construct, and operate buildings addressing these factors.

Specifically, the caucus focuses on the eight aspects of high-performance buildings outlined in the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007: accessibility, aesthetics, cost-effectiveness, functionality, historic preservation, productivity, safety and security, and sustainability.

“This caucus is about finding practical ways to make progress in Washington,” Welch said. “Despite the heated political rhetoric, common ground does exist. For example, while there are big differences on energy policy, everyone agrees that using less energy is a good thing. So why not work together to make homes and buildings more energy efficient? It’s simply common sense. This caucus will help identify more areas where we can work together, and I am pleased to serve as its co-chair.”

Caucus coalition chair Doug Read said caucus members are delighted with Welch’s new role.

“His leadership over the years on building energy efficiency and sustainability has resulted in the introduction and passage of several key bills in Congress,” Read said. “The coalition looks forward to working with him and the rest of the caucus to continue educating members of Congress on the importance of high-performance buildings issues.”

Publication date: 1/21/2013