East Montgomery Times

Would expand use of federal tax credit; Companion bill introduced in Senate

PHILADELPHIA (May 12, 2023) – Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA-3rd) has introduced his innovative school-repair bill, which would make it easier for school districts to use the current federal historic rehabilitation tax credit to upgrade historic school buildings that will continue to operate as schools after renovation. 

“Many Philadelphia schools have had serious problems like asbestos, lead or mold, and some need vital repairs to their heating, cooling, electrical system or roof – and these types of issues also affect many schools across Pennsylvania and the nation. Our students, teachers and school staff deserve safe, healthy places to learn and work,” Evans said. 

“A similar idea has worked in Virginia – let’s put it to use across America.”  

Evans said he believes his bill, the Rehabilitation of Historic Schools Act (H.R. 3181), and a companion Senate bill can gain bipartisan support over time in part because the legislation has private-sector involvement. An earlier version of Evans’ legislation previously passed the House as part of an infrastructure bill. 

“This is one tool in the toolbox. I will again be supporting other federal assistance for school repairs and renovations, and we also need more state and local funding for this purpose. We need to have as many tools in the toolbox as possible! I want to thank my House co-sponsors and the Senate sponsors for their leadership and commitment to repairing and renovating our schools.” 

Evans’ House bill is co-sponsored by Reps. Danny Davis and Jan Schakowsky (both D-IL) and Steve Cohen (D-TN) and Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC). The Senate bill is sponsored by Sens. Tim Kaine and Mark Warner (both D-VA).  

Evans represents the 3rd Congressional District, which includes Northwest and West Philadelphia and parts of North, South, Southwest and Center City Philadelphia. 

During Evans’ first six years in Congress, his office has helped to return to or save more than $25 million for Philadelphians from federal agencies such as the IRS, Social Security Administration and Department of Veterans Affairs. His website is evans.house.gov and his social media handle is @RepDwightEvans on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

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Issues: Congress Environment Education Health

Original source can be found here.