Washington, DC — U.S. Congressman J. Gresham Barrett (SC,03) today released the following statement in opposition to H.R. 2454 American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009:

“Today, the American people have been burdened with what is essentially a national energy tax. I opposed H.R. 2454 because I believe there is a better, less costly and more viable way to conserve energy and reduce our nation’s dependency on foreign oil.

“Under this legislation, the cost of energy will greatly increase, which will directly affect millions of families who are already struggling to pay bills during this time of economic hardship. Not only will the cost of energy increase, but this bill will result in an enormous loss of jobs in the United States and encourages outsourcing to countries such as China and India. In my district alone, it is estimated that there could be a loss of up to 4,500 jobs by 2012—which is unacceptable.”

“It is important that America finds ways to generate our own energy and reduce our dependence on foreign oil, but increasing taxes is simply not an option. We need to focus on viable energy alternatives, such as nuclear energy, which provides more affordable energy to homes and businesses while creating jobs. Construction of a new nuclear power plant represents 1,400-1,800 jobs during construction, with peak employment as high as 2,400 jobs. This is the kind of innovation that could get our economy moving again.”