Fore A good time SEE PAGE 10 new members & renewals SEE PAGE 5 share your news SEE PAGE 9
Michael Nunziata GCBA 2024 President
Best,
My Fellow GCBA Members and Friends, Hiring can be quite difficult, and lately, it seems even more challenging. At 13th Floor Homes, we’ve attempted to hire for two corporate positions over the past year—one took us nearly a year to fill, and the other remains unfilled. I must admit, when I learned that one of my duties as GCBA’s 2024 president would be to identify and hire a new executive officer, I was less than optimistic given my recent experiences that we’d be able to find the high-quality leader this organization needs and deserves. Sometimes, though, you get lucky. This month, I have the privilege, on behalf of our Board of Directors, of announcing that GCBA has made another major step forward this year with the hiring of our very own member, Sam Yates, through his organization Yates & Associates, to fulfill the duties and obligations of GCBA’s Executive Consultant position. Sam will join us in fulfilling the responsibilities of our organization’s top executive after more than 3 years as a dedicated member, 3 years on our board, and nearly 2 years on our executive committee. As many of you know, Sam has also chaired our Communications Committee, hosts the GCBA Builders Spotlight Podcast, is the driving force behind the creation and distribution of our monthly newsletter, and publishes our weekly eblasts. Suffice it to say, Sam already contributes so much to this organization, and I’m thrilled that he will now be assuming an even broader role leading this organization as its top executive. I want to thank the team at Landmark & Associates—Stacey, Jen, and Caressa—for their service to the organization leading up to this point. They stepped in last year to bridge the gap while we identified a new solution and did an absolutely amazing job ensuring that our organization stayed on course during this transitional period. Sam’s appointment is not just a new chapter for the GCBA; it’s an opportunity to continue building on the solid foundation we have established. With his extensive experience and passion for our mission, I am confident that Sam will lead us to new heights. Please join me in welcoming Sam Yates as our new Executive Consultant. We look forward to his leadership and the exciting future ahead for the Gold Coast Builders Association.
GCBA President’s MessagE JUNE 2024
GCBA 2024 UPCOMING EVENTS
GCBA 2024 Leadership List
If you are interested in serving on the Board and/or Becoming an Officer please contact GCBA at: 561-228-6137 or info@GCBAFlorida.com
Hard Hat Happy Hour (Drive Shack/Golf) Tuesday, July 18, 2024 Southeast Building Conference (SEBC) 7/24/2024 - 7/25/2024 Building Official Association of Palm Beach County Joint Annual Industry Association Luncheon Thursday, August 15, 2024 2024 PRISM AWARDS Wednesday, August 28, 2024 Hard Hat Happy Hour (Ax Throwing) Wednesday, September 18, 2024 Annual Meeting / Halloween HHHH Thursday, October 24, 2024 Holiday Luncheon Monday, December 2, 2024
Executive OFFICERS PRESIDENT Mike Nunziata, 13th Floor Homes 1ST VP Michelle Mockenhaupt, D.R. Horton 2ND VP Mark Richards, Stock Custom Homes ASSOCIATE VP Rick Baxter, LocalIq/USA TODAY Network 2nd Assoc. VP Anthony Macaluso, Integrity Development Group VP FINANCE Beth Rappaport, CAM, CMCA Campbell Property Management IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Frank R. Coppola III, Coppola Brothers Board of Directors Builder REPRESENTATIVES Scott Hughes, CSCI LLC Matt Ellish, Ellish Builders Stefanie Mogull, 13th Floor Homes Anna Meyers, Lennar Homes ASSOCIATE REPRESENTATIVES Lauryn Calvert, LocaliQ, USA Today Network Chelsea Swanson, Nations Roof
In past editions of News to Build On we shared information about our newest GCBA Members. Starting with this edition, we’re also sharing information about Members who have seen the value of membership and have renewed their commitment to our industry and fellow Members. While it is always important to recruit new Members, we should always have more renewals as our membership pool grows. Reach out to office@GCBAFlorida.com if you have a recommendation on a new member or would like information to share with your prospective member. Please take a moment when you encounter the new and renewing Members below to thank them for their professionalism and dedication to the home building industry in our many different communities. While you are at it, share some information about yourself, your business, and your products. That is how we all reap yet one more benefit of the GCBA.
HERE WE GROW!
NEW MEMBERS Associates Level Group Developers & Consultants Frank Mazzrillo levelgroupdevelopers@gmail.com 954-852-1122 Meloni Joseph Real Estate Meloni Joseph jamesjosephmma@gmail.com 561-475-4575 Outdoor Lighting Perspectives West Palm Beach Jonathan Rowland westpalmbeach@outdoorlights.com 561-895-7041 RENEWING MEMBErs Associates Angel Water, Inc. Asadorian, Inc AV2E Electrical Services, LLC Campbell Property Management Coach Michael Business, Leadership, Team Coaching Creative Stucco and Design Inc Crest Air Diligent Concrete Washout LotzCo, Inc. PGT Industries Structural Insulated Panel Assn. (SIPA) Tradesmen International LLC UMI Stone - United Materials Water Restoration Solutions Builder >5 Million Gross Revenue Forestar Group Inc. Genco Real Estate, Construction & Development Corp Builder <5 Million Gross Revenue BEM Custom Builders Bespoke Design & Consulting Ellish Builders / Marmat Homes Richard and Rice Construction
GCBA 2024 NEW & RENEWING MEMBERS
Andy Wyman, Esq. founded Wyman Legal Solutions in Boca Raton, Florida, and holds a Martindale-Hubbell rating of “AV-Preeminent.” Learn more about Andy at Wyman Legal Solutions. For expert legal guidance and support in your construction projects, don't hesitate to call us at (561) 361-8700 to schedule a consultation and discover how Wyman Legal Solutions can help safeguard your business and ensure your project's success. Your peace of mind is just a phone call away!
In Memoriam: Len Tylka
LEGAL ROUNDUP
Building Sustainable Structures: A Guide for Contractors
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the construction industry. Building sustainable structures not only benefits the environment but also enhances the value and appeal of your projects. Here are some key considerations for building sustainably: Use Sustainable Materials Incorporate sustainable materials into your construction projects. This includes using recycled, reclaimed, or sustainably sourced materials that have a lower environmental impact. Sustainable materials often provide better durability and performance, contributing to the long-term value of the structure. Implement Energy-Efficient Designs Design structures with energy efficiency in mind. Utilize energy-efficient systems and technologies, such as solar panels, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and LED lighting. Incorporating passive design strategies, like natural ventilation and daylighting, can also reduce energy consumption. Reduce Waste Minimize waste generation during construction by implementing waste reduction practices. This includes careful planning to avoid over-ordering materials, recycling construction debris, and reusing materials where possible. Reducing waste helps lower project costs and minimizes the environmental impact. Water Conservation Implement water conservation measures in your construction projects. Use low-flow fixtures, efficient irrigation systems, and rainwater harvesting techniques to reduce water usage. Water conservation not only benefits the environment but can also reduce operating costs for the building. Focus on Indoor Air Quality Ensure good indoor air quality by using low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) materials, proper ventilation systems, and maintaining a clean construction site. Good indoor air quality is essential for the health of the building's occupants. Obtain Green Building Certifications Consider obtaining green building certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or ENERGY STAR, for your projects. These certifications demonstrate your commitment to sustainability and can enhance the marketability and value of your structures. By using sustainable materials, implementing energy-efficient designs, reducing waste, conserving water, focusing on indoor air quality, and obtaining green building certifications, you can build sustainable structures that benefit both the environment and your business.
Len Tylka, a visionary in the world of construction and engineering, leaves behind a legacy of resilience and innovation. His journey began in 1971, and over the years, he became a second-generation custom single-family home builder and developer. As the founding principal of LTL Associates, Inc., a Professional Engineering firm, and LTL Builders, a Statewide Certified General Contractor, Len’s impact reverberated across both vertical and horizontal construction projects. Mr. Tylka is a member and Life Director of the Gold Coast Builders Association, where he served as President, Second Vice President, Chairman of the Governmental Affairs Committee, and Chairman of the Political Action Committee. In 2007, Len Tylka was inducted into the Gold Coast Builders Association Hall of Fame, which honors individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions and shaped the character of the housing industry in South Florida. His expertise extended beyond borders, with international experiences in areas susceptible to tropical storms. Len’s specialty lay in hurricane-resistant design and construction—a skill honed through evaluating and retrofitting structures in storm-prone South Florida since 1991. His collaboration with HardShell Homes, a systems-built housing manufacturer, exemplified his commitment to resilient living spaces. Mr. Tylka has also acted as engineer of record on more than 200 development projects in South Florida. Len’s work wasn’t limited to bricks and mortar. He also played a pivotal role in land development, conducting due diligence studies, feasibility analyses, and budgeting. His focus shifted toward workforce housing, reflecting his dedication to community impact. As a civil and structural engineer, Len contributed to iconic projects, including institutional buildings for Rutgers University, Princeton University, Fort Dix (New Jersey), and Fort Monmouth (New Jersey). His legacy lives on in the structures he shaped and the minds he inspired. Len Tylka—forever remembered for his unwavering dedication to building a better world and his service to the Gold Coast Builders Association.
SEND US YOUR NEWS!
Our GCBA Members are constantly in the news and making news! Now, we want to share your news on our website. If you have news you would like to share with fellow GCBA Members, it is really simple to do. Just send and e-mail with your news to S.Yates@GCBAFlorida.com. All news is subject to review and may be edited for available space. News about non-Members may not be allowed and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The best way for a non-Member to be featured in our GCBA News section --- Join the Gold Coast Builders Association! Please be sure to include any relevant links or graphics so we may continue to promote and grow your business. FORT PIERCE, Fla., A-1 Global Holdings, Inc., a leading manufacturer of pre-engineered building components, proudly announces that Jerry Vulgaris, Vice President of Sales, has been elected to the Structural Building Components Association (SBCA) Board of Directors. Vulgaris brings over 30 years of industry experience to this important position, highlighting his commitment to advancing the building components industry and reflecting A-1’s dedication to leadership and innovation in construction. “Jerry’s appointment to the SBCA Board of Directors is a testament to his exceptional expertise and dedication,” said Jan S. Beck, President of A-1 Global Holdings. “We are confident he will significantly contribute to the association’s mission and goals.” As Vice President of Sales at A-1, Jerry has been essential to the company’s growth and success. His strategic vision and industry understanding have helped A-1 achieve new heights in customer satisfaction. On the SBCA Board, Jerry will collaborate with industry leaders to address key issues, promote best practices, and drive sector growth. “I am honored to be elected to the SBCA Board of Directors,” said Jerry Vulgaris. “After more than three decades of WTCA/SBCA participation, I’m excited to rejoin the Board and contribute to the growth of the SBCA and the entire Component Industry.” SBCA is the national trade organization representing manufacturers of structural building components. Its mission is to advance members’ interests by providing educational resources, industry advocacy, and networking opportunities. Jerry’s election aligns with A-1’s commitment to the industry’s overall growth and sustainability. About A-1 Global Holdings Founded in 1977, A–1 has over 460 employees and is a leading manufacturer of pre–engineered wood trusses and EZWALL® Innovative Framing Solution™. The Company reorganized in December 2022 as A-1 Global Holdings, Inc., the new parent company for A-1 Industries of Florida, Inc., and A-1 Industries of Georgia, LLC. A-1 currently has manufacturing facilities in Fort Pierce, Fla., and Bainbridge, Ga., and multiple employment opportunities in both locations for candidates who share the Company’s Core Values – Own it, Passionate, Honesty, and Respect. A-1’s employees are eligible to participate in the Company’s Employee Stock Ownership Plan. For Further Information: Michael Fagan, 772-409-1010 Michael.Fagan@A1Industries.com www.A1Industries.com If you are a Member of the Gold Coast Builders Association and have News to share with our Members, please submit to Sam Yates, Executive Consultant, S.Yates@GCBAFlorida.com Submitted News is subject to GCBA approval and editing.
Get Ready FORE the Gold Coast Builders Association Hard Hat Happy Hour at the Drive Shack in West Palm Beach!
The Gold Coast Builders Association (GCBA) is gearing up for an exciting evening at the Drive Shack in West Palm Beach. On July 18, 2024, GCBA members and guests will gather for the Hard Hat Happy Hour, a unique event that combines networking, golf, and good times. What to Expect: Golf Fun: Nine bays at the Drive Shack will be open exclusively for GCBA members. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a first-timer, this is your chance to swing those clubs and enjoy some friendly competition with your fellow Members. Food!: From appetizers to hearty bites, there’s something for everyone. We are keeping the Menu under wraps (is that a Hint?) but it will be delicious. Cheers to You: Each participant will receive two drink tickets to redeem at the bar. Raise a glass to camaraderie and celebrate the thriving building community. And if you are really in a celebratory mood, extra drink tickets are available. Networking Opportunities: The GCBA Hard Hat Happy Hour is more than just golf and refreshments. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow builders, contractors, and industry professionals. Share stories, exchange business cards, and build valuable relationships. Network. Network. Network! Sponsorships: Interested in supporting the event and making your business stand out? Sponsorship opportunities are available and listed online. Showcase your business and contribute to the success of the GCBA community. Major Sponsor visibility includes Chef (our food for the evening) $3,000 and Bar $1,500. How to Attend: Date: July 18, 2024 Time: TBA Location: Drive Shack, West Palm Beach Ticket Price: $50 per person Don’t miss out on this fantastic evening! Mark your calendar, grab your hard hat (or your golf cap), and join us for a memorable Hard Hat Happy Hour. See you there!
UMI AND YOU AND I HURRICANE READY
Special thanks to UMI Stone; Jonathan Falk, Disaster Director, National Association of Home Builders; Josefina Genaoa, Regional FEMA Representative; and David Burstein, Atlantic Pacific Insurance for making the Third Annual GCBA Hurricane Seminar another huge success. Each participant gave insights and expert information designed to allow our Members and the general public to prepare for whatever Mother Nature may send our way this Hurricane Season 2024. The National Hurricane Center has forecast one of the most active ever hurricane seasons with Florida in the crosshairs for the entire season. As an added bonus for our special Hurricane Seminar, we were joined by a surprise guest, the National Executive Director of the United Cajun Navy, Jennifer Leatherman-Toby. Even more surprising, Jennifer Leatherman-Toby is a resident of Indian River County and heard about our event via social media. A lot of contact were made and valuable information was shared. Now, let’s hope we don’t have to put into practice what was taught and learned during our seminar.
First and foremost, I can simply say that I am thrilled that I have been selected as the new Executive Consultant for the GCBA. It is an honor to step into this role and serve our family of builders, contractors, and industry professionals in Palm Beach and Northern Broward County. As someone deeply passionate about the housing industry, I am committed to advancing our mission. Together, I know we can achieve remarkable things. I’m inviting you to be part of our future. Here’s what we can do together. Growth and Awareness: The GCBA Members, like you, have done an awesome job of elevating awareness about home ownership and the impact our industry has on our region. By fostering collaboration and promoting best practices throughout the GCBA, we will grow stronger together. Education and Empowerment: I believe in the power of knowledge. Let’s look forward to workshops, seminars, and webinars that will empower you with insights into our industry trends, sustainability, and regulatory changes. Many of these will be presented by our State and National Associations. We’ll be sharing the information for all to participate. I also look forward to each of you developing ideas for workshops, seminar, and webinars that can be shared. Reach out to me personally with your input. Building Bridges: Networking is key in every industry. My hat is off to the tremendous GCBA Events Committee as our volunteers work tirelessly to create opportunities for professionals to connect, share ideas, and forge meaningful partnerships. Together, we can build a supportive community. Your part is Participation. And by giving feedback we will continue to fine tune our Hard Hat Happy Hours, Special Events, and much more. I look forward to meeting each of you at one (hopefully all) of our upcoming events. Advocacy: Together with your Board of Directors and Executive Officers, I will be your advocate, championing policies that support affordable housing, workforce development, and responsible building practices. It gives me goosebumps to say it but remember, “Our impact extends beyond construction—it shapes lives.” “Our industry is more than bricks and mortar; it’s about creating homes, livelihoods, and futures,” is something you will often hear me say. As we navigate challenges and seize opportunities, I invite you to join me as your Executive and our entire Board of Directors and dedicated volunteers on this exciting journey. Thank you for your warm welcome, and I look forward to working alongside each of you. Together, we’ll build a stronger, more resilient, and even more beneficial Gold Coast Builders Association.
LEADING THE WAY TOGETHER FOR GCBA
KNOW THE HURRICANE REGS!
Did you know that Palm Beach County and more specifically the Florida Building Code has Regulations about what you should and should not do when a Tropical Storm or Hurricane threatens our area? Palm Beach County Building officials asked that we share the letter below with our Members. It’s a great reminder that we are all in Hurricane Season together.
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The Men Who Will Keep Your *** Out of Hot Water
The most recent FREE Coffee and Conversation monthly virtual meeting truly had guests who may be able to keep you out of hot water with the Feds over a new Overtime Rule that becomes effective July 1, 2024. The federal overtime Rule is expected to benefit millions of lower-paid salaried workers in the United States. However Free Coffee and Conversation Guests Ken Feldman and Andrew Kotzian say the flip side to that is many employers including some members of the GCBA are reportedly unprepared for the changes. Their guest appearance was captured in a podcast that is now featured on our GCBA Builders Spotlight. The U.S. Department of Labor’s new regulation will make most salaried workers who earn less than $844 per week eligible for overtime pay. This threshold will increase to $1,128 per week on January 1, 2025. Feldman and Kotzian point out that despite the potential devastating impact of the new Rule, many employers are not fully aware of the changes or what they need to do to comply. Both gave very specific ways GCBA Members can make changes now to effectively manage these changes. Both Feldman and Kotzian are offering their services to Members to: Conduct an Internal Audit: Review current employee classifications and compensation structures to identify areas needing adjustment. Understand which employees will be affected: Review all exempt employees to make sure their positions still qualify. Consult Legal and HR Experts: Engage with legal counsel and HR professionals to navigate the complexities of the new Rule and develop compliant strategies. Have conversations with affected employees: Make any required changes to time tracking and payroll systems. Identify potentially impacted employees: The first step is to identify those employees classified as overtime-exempt who are potentially impacted by this Rule. The bottom line? Feldman and Kotzian agree that the new overtime Rule is a significant change in labor law that will affect millions of workers and employers alike -- but very differently. It is crucial for employers to understand the new Rule and take steps now to prepare for its implementation. For employers who do NOT make changes to comply with the new Rule, there are consequences that include fines that increase incrementally. And for flagrant, intentional violations, some employers may even face jail time. You’ll find more information in our latest episode of the GCBA Builders Spotlight Podcast. You may also reach out to our experts directly. Andy Kotzian Green Payroll, Owner and President Andy@greenpayroll.com 954-534-5144 Ken Feldman Principal-KAF HR Consultancy kenafeldman@gmail.com 954-295-0464
Our Board of Director spotlight this month is on Rick Baxter, USA Today Network. Rick calls Palm Beach county home but resides in the magical coastal town of Jensen Beach, Florida. Married for 34 years to Lisa with one grown child (Tina) who is a pediatric physician, Rick and Lisa welcomed their first grandchild, Luca, one year ago. For more than three decades, Rick has been deeply involved in marketing, data analysis, and business development in the business and marketing solutions space. Rick has been a Senior level regional marketing director for a national media company – E.W. Scripps. Research analyst with focus on database marketing – Tribune Company. Regional business development account executive – USA Today Network/Localiq (focus on home builders, home improvement and home services industry). A graduate of University of California at Santa Cruz (Go Banana Slugs!) with degree in Psychology, Rick is your go to expert on marketing and business development. Rick hopes to see you at the South East Business Conference in Orlando in July.
Rick Baxter USA TODAY Network
The deadline to submit your entry for a prestigious PRISM Award has been extended to June 28 due to a surge in entries. We need extra processing time so the deadline has been extended! Maya Simhon-Chocron is the 2024 PRISM Chair and is ready for any questions about entering or about sponsorship packages for this year’s prestigious event. Maya has even provided her cellphone and e-mail for those eager to enter and receive recognition for their outstanding work. Her cell 954-695-4047. And email mschocron@gmail.com. “PRISM is our premier event for Members to be recognized for their extraordinary talent. We have set aside the evening of Wednesday August 28 to pay tribute to the outstanding achievements of our region's builders, developers, architects, marketing professionals, planners, interior designers, landscape architects, salespeople, and other luminaries who have showcased excellence across every aspect of the building industry in South Florida. We are also still accepting PRISM Sponsors. As a Sponsor, your company will enjoy prominent recognition in front of a distinguished audience of top leaders from the Association and the building industry at large." – Thank you, Maya Simhon-Chocron.” Mark Your Calendars: Date: Wednesday, August 28, 2024 Venue: Farmers Table, Boca Raton Attire: Cocktail Attire For complete information about the PRISM Award Entry Requirements and Sponsorship opportunities visit gcbaflorida.com/prism-awards. You may also download a Call For Entries pdf from our GCBA website.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS SPOTLIGHT
PRISM EXTENSION!
Housing Cost Gains Continue to Outpace Core Inflation
Shelter costs continue to put upward pressure on inflation, accounting for nearly 70% of the total increase in all items excluding food and energy. This ongoing elevated inflation is likely to keep the Federal Reserve on hold and delay rate cuts this year. Both overall and core inflation eased slightly in April amid higher costs for gasoline and shelter. On a year-over-year (YOY) basis, the shelter index rose by 5.5% in April, following a 5.7% increase in March. The Fed’s ability to address rising housing costs is limited because increases are driven by a lack of affordable supply and increasing development costs. Additional housing supply is the primary solution to tame housing inflation. Figure 1 demonstrates how shelter costs are rising faster than core inflation.
Higher Mortgage Rates Dampen April New Home Sales
Mortgage rates that averaged above 7% since mid-April per Freddie Mac data acted as a drag on new home sales in April. Sales of newly built, single-family homes in April fell 4.7% to a 634,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate from a downwardly revised reading in March, according to newly released data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau. The pace of new home sales in April is down 7.7% from a year earlier. A new home sale occurs when a sales contract is signed, or a deposit is accepted. The home can be in any stage of construction: not yet started, under construction or completed. In addition to adjusting for seasonal effects, the April reading of 634,000 units is the number of homes that would sell if this pace continued for the next 12 months. New single-family home inventory in April remained elevated at a level of 480,000, up 12.1% compared to a year ago. This represents a 9.1 months’ supply at the current building pace, which has been supported by the ongoing shortage of resale homes. Completed, ready to occupy inventory (97,000 homes in April) is up 42.6% from a year ago. However, that inventory type remains 20% of total inventory. The median new home sale price in April was $433,500, down 1.4% from March, and up 3.9% compared to a year ago. Regionally, on a year-to-date basis, new home sales are up 22.4% in the Northeast, 22.3% in the Midwest and 14.0% in the West. New home sales are down 10.5% in the South.
New Cost of Housing Index
A new quarterly Cost of Housing Index unveiled recently by NAHB and Wells Fargo underscores the housing affordability crisis in America by revealing that in the first quarter of 2024, 38% of a typical family’s income was needed to make a mortgage payment on a median priced new single-family home in the United States. Low-income families, defined as those earning only 50% of the area’s median income, would have to spend 77% of their earnings to pay for the same new home. HUD defines cost-burdened families as those “who pay more than 30% of their income for housing” and a severe cost burden is defined as paying more than 50% of one’s income on housing.
Don't Federalize Codes, NAHB Tells Congress
The NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) Scholarship Program is a way for NAHB members who are 21-35 years old to experience everything IBS offers. Scholarship recipients receive an IBS Registration (IBS Expo+Education Pass), travel stipend, hotel accommodations for the show, and more for IBS 2025, which takes place Feb. 25-27, 2025, in Las Vegas. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. ET on July 12. Application information, including video sub- mission guidelines, can be found at buildersshow.com.
New Refrigerants Are Coming
Apply Now for Scholarship To 2025 Builders' Show
The recent federal push to require certain new homes to meet the stringent energy efficiency require- ments of the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and ASHRAE 90.1-2019 will price many would-be home buyers and renters out of the market and give them no choice but to stay in older, less efficient homes. Testifying on behalf of NAHB before a House energy subcommittee, Shawn Woods, a home builder from Blue Springs, Mo., said the negatives of a restrictive, costly national energy code, with no consideration for local conditions, outweigh the minimal improvements to energy efficiency.
The HVAC industry is transitioning to new refrig- erants required by the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020, which gradually phases down the use of existing classes of refrigerants and establishes new requirements for the refrig- gerants used in air conditioners and heat pumps. The new class of refrigerants has a lower global warming potential. The U.S. EPA has set transition dates for new equipment required to use new refrigerants, commonly referred to as A2Ls.