Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell) announced that she received the “Legislator of the Year” award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in New York State. She was presented with the award at a reception in Endicott, NY.

The State Green Building Construction Act, authored by Assemblywoman Lupardo, was the top legislative priority for the organization this year. Governor David Paterson signed the legislation in September. The new law will require the state to develop green building standards for all new construction or substantial renovation of all New York State government buildings, including state agencies and public authorities.

“It’s an honor to be recognized with this award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in New York State,” said Assemblywoman Lupardo. “I applaud their efforts to encourage green building and look forward to continuing to work together with them.”

Edward C. Farrell, Executive Director of AIA New York State, said: “I commend Assemblywoman Lupardo for her support and leadership in making this bill become law. Architects know that buildings are the primary contributors of both greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. Assemblywoman Lupardo is leading the state in a direction that will address this serious problem. The enactment of the Green Building Construction Act was AIA’s top legislative priority this year.”