BOMA International Advocacy Update - September 2026
BOMA International Advocacy Update
The following is a summary of the BOMA International Advocacy Update provided via email on 9/30/2026
TRIA Reauthorization Advances in Congress
BOMA’s top federal legislative priority, reauthorization of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA), moved closer to enactment when the Senate unanimously passed S. 4395 on September 28. With both the House and Senate now having passed reauthorization legislation, BOMA will continue urging Congress to resolve differences between the bills and enact an extension before year-end. TRIA remains a key BOMA priority because of its importance to terrorism insurance availability and commercial real estate financing.
House Passes Data Center Ratepayer Protection Bill
The House passed the bipartisan Ratepayer Protection Act 417-3 on September 16. The legislation would require states to consider standards intended to prevent the costs associated with hyperscale data centers from being shifted to other utility ratepayers. States would be required to consider the standards but would retain authority over whether to adopt them.
Bipartisan Permitting Reform Bill Introduced
A bipartisan group of senators introduced the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act of 2026 on September 30. The package proposes significant changes to federal environmental reviews and permitting, including deadlines for reviews, limits on certain legal challenges and provisions intended to streamline approvals for energy and infrastructure projects. Senate consideration is expected after the November election. BOMA is reviewing the legislation and will continue working with industry partners as the measure advances.
BOMA International Post-Election Webinar
BOMA International’s Advocacy team will examine how the 2026 election results could affect commercial real estate policy at the federal and state levels, including the lame-duck session and the 120th Congress.
Thursday, November 12 | 3–4 PM ET | Free for BOMA Members
Register now
Plug-In Solar Systems: Emerging Building Safety Issue
BOMA International has released a new policy primer addressing the growing use of Plug-in Photovoltaic (PIPV) systems, commonly called “balcony solar.” These systems connect directly to a building’s electrical system through a standard outlet and may create electrical and life-safety concerns if owners do not follow appropriate standards.
As states begin considering legislation governing these systems, BOMA is advocating for building owners’ ability to manage electrical loads and for appropriate safety certification requirements.