Architects Issue Statement on ‘Fiscal Cliff’ Vote

Washington, D.C.  (January 2, 2013) – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) issued the following statement in reaction to the House and Senate votes approving the “Fiscal Cliff” deal negotiated by Congressional leaders earlier this week. The statement should be attributed to AIA President Mickey Jacob, FAIA:

“On the plus side, the agreement prevents a tax increase on millions of Americans and small businesses. It also extends several business tax incentives that help create jobs and promote design and construction, including for schools and energy efficient homes.

“The agreement also delays – but for only for two months – the job-killing, indiscriminate federal spending cuts caused by budget sequestration. This is good news for the economy and for the design and construction sector if Congress and the White House can come up with a more cohesive way to cut wasteful spending – and continue to make smart investments in the nation’s infrastructure.

“So, our nation has backed away from the Fiscal Cliff, but we’re still much too close to it. The element of uncertainty left by this bruising political battle will plague our economy for months and years to come. And that will only delay economic recovery and impair the ability for business to grow, prosper and create jobs.

“This clearly is no way to run a government. Americans, and the membership of the AIA, are fed up with Congress’ inability to work together in the best interests of the people of the United States.

“It is time for Congress to set aside party differences and come up with viable and responsible solutions that will foster economic growth, reward individuals and firms for success, and provide incentives to reinvest in their businesses. By dedicating our efforts to focus on the issues instead of the politics, together we will be able to stay on the path of economic recovery.

“The American Institute of Architects stands ready to work with the 113th Congress, which takes office tomorrow, and the White House to help address the nation’s pressing economic challenges with solutions that benefit economic growth and preserve and create more jobs.”

For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. Members adhere to a code of ethics and professional conduct to ensure the highest standards in professional practice. Embracing their responsibility to serve society, AIA members engage civic and government leaders and the public in helping find needed solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation and world.