Perhaps we should take a deep breath. 63% of the housing stock is constructed after 1960, correct? So why such concern for a potential slowing of the pace due to the historic preservation process (which as David notes is an existing law)? There is plenty to do! No need to point fingers before we even get started.

Perhaps we form a phased approach, propose immediate work on upgrading the post-1960s construction, meanwhile we further educate the general public on historic preservation practices? Propose funding for educational community workshops, training for contractors through NCPTT. At the least, give preservationists and government agencies a chance to develop clear guidelines/recommendations for owners of historic homes. Perhaps a potential rewrite to the Secretary of the Interior's Standards (aka the Standards) to include more guidelines on sustainability?

Also, please do not discount the great efforts that are already being made by organizations like the National Trust, the Association for Preservation Technology and the general preservation community. A lot of time, money and effort is being spent RIGHT NOW studying preservation approaches to existing building performance, building envelope testing, low tech/high performance solutions. Studying and implementing creative technical solutions that conserve energy while conserving historic fabric takes time and thought. Members of the preservation community are active participants in conversations with federal agencies working to come up with solutions. You make it sound as if they are sitting on their duff just looking for ways to put out road blocks!

Angst is understandable. Remember Urban Renewal and the 1960s? I'm not saying we wait 10 years... I'm just saying we need a well thought out plan of action that starts with education and reduces widespread panic. Perhaps if you educate yourself on what the review committee (SHPO) is looking for in a weatherization project for a historic home, you, yourself, can help expedite the process.

For example: If you are an owner of a home that is listed on or eligible for the National Register (or a local/state register), you need to know some basics. If you go to SHPO saying I propose to replace all my historic windows with new vinyl windows (that are not of a style that is appropriate to the historic character of the home), then they are going to say "no".

And you are FALSE in stating the the building envelope is not allowed to be touched. If you open and read the Standards you will find various approaches to historic buildings all of which have to do with the level of significance the building holds.

I hope everyone can take some time to educate themselves before creating a panic. It will not help the cause. And in the end it will be you slowing it down, simply because the focus will be turned to putting out fires and debunking rumors instead of focusing on the task at hand.