“Blunt instrument” bill would prevent LEED certification for state government buildings

WNC Rep. Michele Presnell is a primary sponsor of the Protect/Promote NC Lumber bill moving in the N.C. House, joined by Buncombe County’s Nathan Ramsey as co-sponsor. The bill (HB 628), just passed in the Agriculture Committee, promotes the use of North Carolina timber in state construction and renovation of state buildings. According to an industry representative, N.C. tree farms do not typically do not meet LEED sustainable forestry standards. Presnell, a freshman legislator representing Haywood, Madison and Yancey counties, was quoted as saying adherence to the prestigious certification standards “ignores quality wood grown within our own borders.” Henderson County Rep. Chuck McGrady, former national president of the Sierra Club, voted against the bill, calling it a “very blunt instrument.” All three WNC legislators are Republicans.

SHARE

Before you comment

The comments section is here to provide a platform for civil dialogue on the issues we face together as a local community. Xpress is committed to offering this platform for all voices, but when the tone of the discussion gets nasty or strays off topic, we believe many people choose not to participate. Xpress editors are determined to moderate comments to ensure a constructive interchange is maintained. All comments judged not to be in keeping with the spirit of civil discourse will be removed and repeat violators will be banned. See here for our terms of service. Thank you for being part of this effort to promote respectful discussion.

Leave a Reply

To leave a reply you may Login with your Mountain Xpress account, connect socially or enter your name and e-mail. Your e-mail address will not be published. All fields are required.