AT-LARGE DISTRICT

​

​Kyle G. Cameron

Democratic

U.S. House, Wyoming At-Large

 

1.         WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS THAT CONGRESS CAN HELP TO REDUCE THE ENERGY AND WATER CONSUMPTION OF BUILDINGS TO HELP MAKE THEM MORE SUSTAINABLE?

​

As a U.S. House Representative, it’s essential to advocate for sustainable construction practices that prioritize energy and water conservation. I’ve researched this issue and found that Congress has made strides in these areas, but more work is needed. Supporting bills like the Water Efficiency, Conservation, and Sustainability Act of 2023, introduced by Rep. Mike Levin and Sen. Alex Padilla, can incentivize energy-efficient and water-saving practices in construction.

 

I will push for increased funding to help states, municipalities, water systems, and Tribal nations implement water-efficiency upgrades and repair leaks, particularly in drought-affected and low-income areas. Additionally, I will promote the adoption of green building codes and standards at the federal level, emphasizing energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable materials.

 

Collaboration is key, so I will work with the Sustainable Energy & Environment Coalition (SEEC) and the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) to ensure that federal facilities, including the U.S. Capitol, prioritize energy conservation. Encouraging local businesses, universities, and research institutions to adopt sustainable construction practices will be another priority. Finally, I plan to host town halls, workshops, and educational sessions to raise awareness about the benefits of energy-efficient buildings and water conservation.

 

 

2. WHICH SUSTAINABLE BUILDING POLICIES DO YOU SUPPORT AND WOULD WORK TO ENACT IF ELECTED?

 

a. Set benchmarking requirements for commercial buildings and encourage cities and states to adopt performance-based standards for buildings

b. Provide rebates to homeowners who invest in energy efficiency improvements

c. Provide incentives to states and localities to adopt the most up-to-date energy building codes

d. Renew and expand tax incentives for energy efficient buildings

f. Provide support to states and localities to make buildings more resilient from natural hazards and disasters

h. Conduct research into the most promising technologies, products and materials that improve occupant health and reduce transmission of contagious disease while saving energy

i. Support programs or incentives to accelerate the electrification of buildings.

 

 

3.         IF ELECTED, WHAT STEPS WILL YOU TAKE TO ENSURE THAT ALL AMERICANS, REGARDLESS OF SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS, ARE ABLE TO BENEFIT FROM HEALTHY AND SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS?

 

If elected, I will prioritize ensuring that all Americans, regardless of socioeconomic status, benefit from healthy and sustainable buildings. The U.S. House of Representatives plays a critical role in advancing policies that support this goal. I will advocate for continued funding and expansion of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America Agenda, which provides resources for K-12 schools to invest in healthier, more sustainable infrastructure.

 

This includes removing lead pipes, installing solar energy, and purchasing electric school buses, which not only improve learning environments but also protect children's health.

 

I will also focus on advancing environmental justice by investing in culturally vibrant, sustainable, and resilient communities. This means working to ensure that everyone has access to safe, clean, and affordable housing, regardless of their income.

 

Ensuring all Americans benefit from healthy and sustainable buildings is essential for promoting equity and environmental justice across the nation. By continuing to advocate for robust legislation and funding, we can create safer, more resilient communities that prioritize the well-being of every citizen.

 

 

4.         IF ELECTED, WHAT STEPS WILL YOU TAKE TO TRAIN AND PREPARE PEOPLE FOR CLEAN ENERGY JOBS THAT ADVANCE SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS AND BUILDING COMPONENTS?

 

If elected, I will focus on securing funding to bring construction jobs around clean energy training and development to Wyoming, emphasizing the importance of preparing our workforce for the future. By advocating for federal investments in job development programs, I aim to equip workers with the skills needed for trade jobs that advance sustainable building practices. This includes manufacturing sustainable building materials and components, which are crucial for constructing energy-efficient homes and infrastructure.

 

I am optimistic about the potential to grow Wyoming's economy by tapping into the construction sector supporting clean energy for everyone, particularly in manufacturing. By working in Congress, I will push for targeted funding to establish training centers and partnerships with local businesses, trade schools, and community colleges. These initiatives will ensure that our workforce is ready to meet the demands of the growing clean energy industry, while also contributing to the development of sustainable building materials that can be used nationwide.

 

 

5.         ARE YOU WILLING TO WORK WITH THE BUILDING SECTOR TO MAKE SURE THAT TRANSFORMING BUILDINGS IS PART OF THE POLICY DEBATE IN CONGRESS, INCLUDING JOINING CAUCUSES THAT ADVOCATE FOR SUSTAINABLE BUILDING POLICIES? IF YES, HOW WILL YOU DO THAT?

 

Yes, I am committed to working with the building sector to ensure that transforming buildings into sustainable, energy-efficient structures is a central part of the policy debate in Congress. I recognize that the building sector plays a crucial role in reducing our carbon footprint and enhancing energy efficiency, and I will actively collaborate with industry leaders, experts, and advocates to drive meaningful change.

 

Realistically, I will push for policies that incentivize the adoption of energy-efficient technologies and sustainable building materials. This includes advocating for tax credits, grants, and funding for research and development in green building technologies.

 

Additionally, I will work to ensure that federal infrastructure projects prioritize sustainability and that there are clear pathways for the building sector to transition to greener practices. Collaboration with stakeholders across the industry will be key to making these initiatives successful and impactful.

 

 

6.         DO YOU HAVE ANY PREVIOUS EXPERIENCES RELATED TO SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS (E.G., SUPPORTING LEGISLATION IN ELECTED OFFICE, MADE ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS TO A HOME, OFFICE, COMMUNITY-WIDE, ETC.)?

 

While I don't have direct experience in the sustainable building sector, I bring a strong commitment and understanding that sustainable buildings are not just a wish but a necessity. My approach will be rooted in collaboration with experts and stakeholders to drive the transition toward energy-efficient and environmentally friendly buildings.

 

I am dedicated to learning from those with expertise in the field and advocating for policies that make sustainable building practices a reality across the nation. My focus will be on supporting legislation, promoting incentives, and ensuring that sustainable construction becomes a standard in our efforts to combat climate change and improve community well-being.