Murphy Votes to Increase Support for Green Public School Improvements and Hold the Line on Property Taxes 

Legislation Will Create Green Jobs, Keep Property Taxes in Check

Washington, D.C. On Thursday, Congressman Scott Murphy (NY-20) voted to help pass the 21^st Century Green High-Performing Public School Facilities Act which will provide critical funding to make green improvements to our public schools, helping to provide our children with healthier and safer learning environments.

"This critical investment in our public schools will help improve our children's learning experiences while creating much needed green jobs to help turn around our economy during these tough economic times," said Rep. Murphy.

"We will now be able to give our children a safe and environmentally friendly place to learn while continuing the effort to hold the line on property taxes."

The bill, which authorizes $6.4 billion for school facilities projects for fiscal year 2010, builds on the funds provided in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to continue to strengthen the economy, protect the environment, and improve our public school system.

This vote also reflects Congressman Murphy's emphasis on transparency and accountability by requiring school districts to publicly report the educational, energy and environmental benefits of projects, how they comply with the green building requirements, and the percentage of funds used for projects at low-income, rural and charter schools.