As a part of NAHB’s Bringing Housing Home initiative, multiple BATC members, as well as BATC and BAM staff, met with Congressman Erik Paulsen at his Eden Prairie District office. The meeting kicked off with members discussing the current housing market and the burdensome role of government regulation.
Additionally, Representative Paulsen talked about the uncertainty of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (otherwise known as Waters of the U.S.). The expansion of power given to the EPA, along with the US Army Corps of Engineers, has often hindered many of our land developers and builders.
Furthermore, members advocated for keeping energy codes flexible and from becoming exceedingly burdensome. “Homes built today are already over 50% more energy efficient than those built in 2006,” said Ian Peterson, David Weekley Homes. “Consumers are demanding a more energy efficient home and the market is providing. There is no need for government to add an inflexible and expensive code.”
Other items BATC asked Representative Paulsen to advocate for included the importance of the mortgage interest deduction, limiting patent trolling, and addressing labor issues.
Paulsen has represented the 3rd district since 2008. He is running for a 5th term this November.
