The Department of the Interior is reinforcing its focus on promoting the coal industry as part of the Trump administration's goal for American Energy Dominance. This initiative includes several policy moves and regulatory reforms to make federally managed lands accessible for energy development. President Trump has issued an Executive Order to this effect.
Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Department of the Interior, stated, "The Golden Age is here, and we are starting to ‘Mine, Baby, Mine’ for clean American coal." He further emphasized the government's focus on "unlocking America’s full potential in energy dominance and economic development."
Efforts to revitalize the coal mining industry include expanding coal reserves access and simplifying permitting processes. This initiative seeks to provide high-paying jobs and boost rural economies while contributing to U.S. energy independence. The Department aims to make coal a central part of a secure American energy portfolio.
The Department plans to end its federal coal leasing moratorium, aligning with President Trump's "Unleashing American Energy" initiative. Previously, the status of actions related to the moratorium was unclear. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is taking steps to end ambiguity, publishing a notice that it will not conduct an environmental impact statement related to former Secretary Sally Jewell's order.
The BLM will also amend resource management plans in Montana and Wyoming. These amendments aim to remove restrictions on new federal coal projects, especially focusing on the Powder River Basin in Wyoming. This could open access to previously restricted federal coal reserves.
The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement plans to revise the Ten-Day Notice Rule to revert partially to its 2020 version. This aims to decrease federal oversight and give states more power over coal mining complaints. The goal is to provide stability to the coal industry by reducing federal intervention.
Finally, the Department is expediting the process for coal producers to request royalty rate relief, which could help keep mines running and maintain local tax revenue.
Through these actions, the Department of the Interior seeks to support the coal industry while ensuring responsible development and energy security by leveraging America's energy resources.
