Washington, DC – Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) released the following statement on his vote against the North American Energy Security and Infrastructure Act:

The House of Representatives voted today to pass the North American Energy Security and Infrastructure Act, HR 8. While I am in favor of creating a national energy strategy that moves our country toward energy independence, reduces our reliance on fossil fuels, and invests in clean and renewable energy, I did not vote for HR 8 because it does not move us toward these goals.

Our energy policy in recent years has been too focused on propping up fossil fuel companies with a favorable regulatory regime and subsidies they don’t need.  While we are still dependent on these fuels to drive our economy and need to ensure that Americans have access to affordable energy, we cannot remain stuck in the past. I am hopeful that I will have a chance in the future to vote on a bill that takes our country toward a cleaner, greener future with abundant energy produced here at home.