Rep. Susi Hamilton issues statement on fracking vote

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Rep. Susi Hamilton has issued a statement, clarifying why she voted to override Governor Perdue’s veto on fracking.

“I did not vote to support fracking, I voted to regulate fracking,” Hamilton said. “A huge difference – but one that tends to get lost in sound bites. I wanted the politics taken out of the debate, and have it instead turned over to a multiple disciplinary board to develop regulations and restriction that must be approved by the NCGA before any permits will be issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.”

Hamilton goes on to say, “It is easy to pound your fist and stand on supposed principle when you are wealthy. The well-to-do environmental lobby of the general assembly lacks the ability to see a bill for what it is. Posturing is not governing, it is advocacy, and the two are very different. I was elected to govern, not advocate.”

Hamilton’s vote was also rumored to be part of a deal to extend state film incentives. She says that bill is a separate issue.