McKinley Statement on President Obama's Decision to "Keep Coal in the Ground"

Statement

Rep. David B. McKinley, P.E. (R-WV) issued the following statement on the Obama Administration's announcement that it is placing a "moratorium" on new coal leases on federal land:

"Let's call this decision what it is -- the first step towards banning all coal production on public lands. Halting new coal production is just the latest slap in the face to the hundreds of thousands of families whose livelihoods rely on coal, and the millions of Americans who benefit from access to this affordable energy source.

"Public lands account for 40% of the coal production in America and generated more than $1.3 billion for American taxpayers last year. Rather than responsibly utilizing these resources, President Obama is throwing a bone to radical environmentalists who want to keep coal in the ground. Next, he will be targeting oil and gas production on public lands.

"Public lands and the resources on them belong to all Americans and should not be held hostage to the President's extreme climate agenda. This decision will mean fewer jobs, lost revenue, and more suffering in communities across America. As Chairman of the Coal Caucus I have already begun to work with like-minded members from other regions to speak out against this plan with one voice. We will use every tool at our disposal to fight this."

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