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Storm Water Reform Bill Would Cut Housing Costs
With duplicative and burdensome storm water regulations pushing up the cost of housing by as much as $4,500 a lot, the nation’s home builders last week applauded Sens. James Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Thomas Carper (D-Del.) for introducing bipartisan legislation that would protect the environment without needlessly driving up housing costs.
“As the 109th Congress draws to a close, Senators Inhofe and Carper should be commended for making it a priority to craft legislation that takes into account the differences between residential construction activity and other industries,” said NAHB President David Pressly. “This measure would update and improve Environmental Protection Agency storm water permit and enforcement policies that have needlessly harmed housing affordability.”
Current storm water permit and enforcement policies, which can add anywhere from $1,400 to $4,500 to the cost of every lot while doing little to improve water quality, are unduly increasing housing costs and pricing a growing number of families out of the market for homeownership.
“By taking a more balanced and reasonable approach to storm water management and enforcement, S. 4101, the ‘Stormwater Enforcement and Permitting Act,’ would simplify compliance and offer a more consistent and sensible regulatory approach that provides better protection for America’s rivers and streams,” said Pressly. “This measure, along with House companion bill H.R. 5558, will serve as an excellent starting point for the 110th Congress to address this important issue when it convenes next month.”
To read the legislation, click here and enter the bill number in the box at the center of the page.
For more information, e-mail Michael Strauss at NAHB, or call him at 800-368-5242 x8252.
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