Michigan: Tax credits for "Green Buildings"

The push for energy efficient building practices in Michigan is under way with the introduction of legislation such as House Bill 4286 by Representative Bruce Rendon (R-Lake City) in February 2011. This bill seeks to amend the Michigan Business Tax Act (2007 PA 36) by providing tax credits for "green" housing practices. In this bill "green" in reference to building practices means that there is an emphasis on site conservation with sustainable planning, water conservation/efficiency, energy efficiency/renewable efficiency, conservation of materials/resources, and indoor environmental quality. Tax credits are awarded based on the acquisition of a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (Legislature.mi.gov).

Obama speech, job plan promote renewables but differ on attention to bio-fuels

President Barack Obama received scores of accolades for his mention of bio-fuels in his speech to the US Congress last Thursday announcing his $447 billion jobs creation plan. However, advocates for alternative fuels would be hard-pressed to find any dedicated follow-through in the actual bill sent from the White House to the Capital the following morning.