Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito, R.W.Va., released the following statement announcing the re-launch of the Congressional Coal Caucus in the 112th Congress. Capito was joined by Reps. Altmire, Holden, Shimkus, Rehberg and Costello as co-chairs.
“Coal is our nation’s most abundant natural resource and supports more than 130,000 good-paying jobs across the country. Anyone who turns on a light or plugs in a computer or watches their favorite TV show has coal to thank for providing a low-cost energy supply. Failure to include this vital resource in an all-of-the-above approach to our energy security will mean widespread consequences, from higher utility bills at home to increased costs at the grocery store.
“With the Administration’s recent attacks on the industry, most notably the EPA’s veto of the existing Spruce Mine Permit, the Coal Caucus stands to play a key role in bringing to light the important role coal plays in our day-to-day lives. As a West Virginian, I am especially concerned with the EPA’s attempts to use their regulatory authority to further an anti-coal agenda. While I agree that the environmental impact of coal mining must be considered, any decisions regarding the future of coal can be done so in a balanced manner that also weighs economic factors. As such, I’ve supported investment in clean-coal technologies.
“I look forward to working with my coal-state colleagues to make sure the coal industry, and the thousands of jobs it supports, has a strong, unified voice in the 112th Congress.”
Background:
Rep. Capito co-founded the Congressional Coal Caucus in the 111th Congress.
Currently, 44 Republicans and 12 Democrats have joined the caucus.
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