Pete Ielmini, Executive Director of the Mechanical Insulators Labor Management Cooperative Trust and Bill Petty, lobbyist with State Federal Strategies, provided an update on the Federal Mechanical Insulation Act during a recent episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast.
The discussion highlighted the bill’s progress, its bipartisan support and potential impact on energy efficiency and job creation. The FMIA aims to incorporate mechanical insulation audits into federal building energy efficiency measures, potentially saving significant taxpayer dollars.
Ielmini expressed excitement about the bill’s progress, noting that after more than two years of effort, they’re finally seeing “the rubber meet the road.”
He praised the partnership with State Federal Strategies and acknowledged the importance of expert guidance in navigating the legislative process.
“These professionals know the ins and outs of Washington D.C. and Congress, and they advise me and get me in the right positions, and put me in front of the right people to discuss mechanical insulation,” Ielmini said.
Petty reported strong bipartisan backing for the bill, with 30 Democrats and 14 Republicans co-sponsoring the legislation. This balanced “Noah’s Ark approach” has been crucial, he said.
Recent developments include Rep. Randy Weber’s positive remarks during a House Energy Subcommittee hearing, where he dedicated his speaking time to discussing the act’s potential benefits. The bill’s possible inclusion in a larger energy efficiency package and its progress through regular order in committee suggest growing momentum.
Impact on energy efficiency and union jobs
Petty expressed optimism about the bill’s chances, anticipating a possible markup and vote within the next month. He also emphasized the FMIA’s focus on American-made products and job creation for skilled union workers.
“The mechanical insulation is American-made and these are American products,” he said. “It’s going to be American workers who are making and installing it. That’s good for America because it’s good for American working families.”
By explicitly including mechanical insulation in federal energy efficiency measures, the bill aims to create a sustainable market for these products and services. This aligns with broader efforts to support domestic manufacturing and create high-quality jobs in the energy efficiency sector.
Listen to the full episode here.