Earlier this week, Appropriations Committee Chairman Hal Rogers questioned Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Steven Chu about the Administration’s continued rejection of our country’s vast coal resources. In particular, Chairman Rogers focused on the need to tap domestic oil, coal and gas reserves to head off rising gas and electricity costs while our economy continues to struggle. He questioned Secretary Chu about DOE’s dismissal of much-needed research funding to enhance coal-based technologies, which will be vital for utilities to comply with burdensome federal regulations – regulations that could shut down many of our country’s power plants, sour economic growth, and raise electricity rates. Chairman Rogers has been a long supporter of coal mining and continues to be a voice in Congress for achieving American energy independence through the use of our nation’s natural resources.

Rogers has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District since 1981. With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving Appalachia’s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents. For more information visit www.halrogers.house.gov. 

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Click here to watch a clip of Chairman Rogers Questioning Secretary Chu on coal research funding

Click here to read the Congressman’s opening statement at this week’s DOE hearing with Secretary Chu

Click here to download an mp3 audio statement from Congressman Rogers

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Mp3 verbatim:

"This is Congressman Hal Rogers. This week, before my Appropriations Committee, I confronted the Secretaries of Energy, State, and the EPA on one vital issue. The Obama Administration’s refusal to allow the Canadian Oil pipeline and its blame for rising gas prices, and the continued war on coal by this Administration.

Whether denying mining permits, cutting clean coal research, or outright rejecting the Keystone pipeline, this Administration is systematically driving up gas prices and your electric bill, and killing coal-related jobs through Eastern Kentucky.

We need those jobs in Kentucky and I told Secretaries Chu, Clinton and EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson just that. Our country will need Appalachian coal for many decades in the future. But the Administration is trying to shut it down now. Some of us are fighting back."