Las Vegas, Nev. -- January 20, 2010 -- Insulation industry leaders launched the Council of the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association at the International Builders Show today as a new organization created to provide a unified, focused voice for the industry in legislative policy debates, according to a news release from the group.

“The Council of NAIMA will advocate for policies and programs that mandate, encourage, and incentivize increased energy efficiency in new and existing residential and commercial buildings and industrial applications,” including the proposed Home Star or “Cash for Caulkers” program, the release states.

 “With the Obama Administration and Congress focused on energy policy, climate policy, and job creation, we believe the time is right for our industry to unite and educate policy-makers about how insulation can address each of these issues and make positive contributions to the country’s future,” said Jeffrey Brisley, Chairman of the Council’s Organizing Committee and Senior Vice President for Sales & Business Development at Knauf Insulation.

Membership is open to thermal and acoustical insulation manufacturers – regardless of insulation product type – and their suppliers located in North America. It is a voluntary group that will operate independently of the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association.

“If policy-makers want to create good jobs and support products made right here in the United States while increasing the energy efficiency of the nation’s building stock, increased funding for insulation installation is the quickest, simplest way,” said NAIMA President and CEO Kate Offringa, who will direct the council’s day-to-day operations.