Eight of the 13 North Country representatives voting last week favored a bill that continues participation in in a regional cap-and-trade program, but stops funding energy efficiency projects such as helping people weatherize homes. Instead that money would be sent to ratepayers.
All those in favor were Republicans, while the five representatives voting against the bill were Democrats. Three other Democrats were excused from voting.
As The Associated Press reported New Hampshire is one of nine states participating in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, a market-based approach to reducing carbon emissions.
New Hampshire receives $15 million to $18 million annually by selling carbon credits to energy generators; 80 percent goes to ratepayers and the rest helps pay for energy efficiency projects such as weatherizing homes.
Under the bill all of that money will go to ratepayers.
Some legislators argued ratepayers need the relief.
Other argued it is important to support energy efficiency.
However, the bill has yet to pass the Senate and then must be approved by Gov. Hassan.
Here are the North Country representatives who voted in favor of the bill:
* Brad Bailey, Republican, Monroe
* John Fothergill, Republican, Colebrook
* Edmond Gionet, Republican, Lincoln
* Erin Hennessey, Republican, Littleton
* Larry Rappaport, Republican, Colebrook
* Herb Richardson Republican, Lancaster
* Leon Rideout, Republican, Lancaster
* John Tholl, Republican, Whitefield
Here are the North Country representatives who voted against the bill:
* Rebecca Brown, Democrat, Sugar Hill
* Susan Ford, Democrat, Easton
* Wayne Moynihan, Democrat, Dummer
* Robert Theberge, Democrat, Berlin
* Yvonne Thomas, Democrat, of Berlin
Here are the North Country representatives excused from voting:
* AletheaFroburg, Democrat, Berlin
* William Hatch, Democrat, Gorham
* Linda Massimilla, Democrat, Littleton
