Today, U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-05) spoke at the FACES of Coal rally on Capitol Hill and energized hundreds of coal miners who traveled from all over Appalachia to make sure their voices were heard. Rogers spoke out against the EPA’s war on coal and introduced legislation, H.R. 6113, the Electric Reliability Protection Act, which would stop the EPA and Administration’s attempt to regulate coal mining out of business.

“At a time when our nation faces 9.6% unemployment, bureaucrats in Washington are trying to put an entire sector of our economy out of business,” said Rogers. “From the devastating Cap and Trade bill, to the EPA’s absurd directives on carbon dioxide, to continued delays in the coal mining permitting process, the Administration is threatening 1 out of every 4 Appalachian coal mining jobs. Because of these political games, 2 billion tons of coal are going untapped – that is enough to power the nation for two years.

“After repeated attempts to force the EPA and Administration to listen, my colleagues and I have decided that enough is enough. Today, I am joined by 11 of my colleagues, from both sides of the aisle, to introduce the Electric Reliability Protection Act in the House of Representatives. This bill would stop the EPA’s power grab and put Appalachian coal miners back to work. Coal creates jobs and powers nearly half of our nation’s electricity needs. Today we are sending a message to unelected bureaucrats that they will not regulate us out of business. Together we will continue to fight the good fight and ensure that America has access to the power it needs to keep the lights on and sustain the coal mining jobs that are worth fighting for.”

Congressman Rogers has introduced H.R. 6113 along with 11 bi-partisan co-sponsors: Robert Aderholt (AL), Rick Boucher (VA), Shelley Moore Capito (WV), Geoff Davis (KY), Jimmy Duncan (TN), Brett Guthrie (KY), Nick Rahall (WV), Zack Space (OH), Ed Whitfield (KY), Charlie Wilson (OH) and Don Young (AK). The legislation would prohibit EPA from executing new regulatory guidance until going through the formal rule-making process, thus allowing for appropriate public comment and discourse. This legislation was prompted by the EPA’s recently implemented standards for surface mining in six Appalachian states which have caused significant barriers and delays in issuing job-creating coal mining permits.

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.