The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a bill sponsored by Rep. Michael Rulli (R-Ohio) to codify President Donald Trump’s executive order (EO) to reestablish the National Coal Council.
While the EO returned the council to its advisory capacity, Rulli’s legislation would have Congress codify it into law, even though its elimination in 2021 wasn’t done through congressional action.
“For decades, the National Coal Council was a powerful voice for coal and a tireless champion for American workers and communities. Coal has reliably fueled our factories, powered our homes, and helped build the greatest economy the world has ever known – it’s ridiculous to neglect it,” said Rep. Rulli.
“We need common-sense, energy policies that keep coal in the mix, strengthen our grid, and protect good-paying jobs. Codifying the National Coal Council into law ensures that politics doesn’t get in the way of good policy. I’m grateful to House leadership and my colleagues for voting to restore this vital council and secure America’s energy future.”
H.R. 3015, the National Coal Council Reestablishment Act, now moves to the Senate for consideration.
The council was established in 1984 during the Reagan administration to provide advice on the industry to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Energy.