Biden blocks new mining in region that produces about 40% of nation’s coal: ‘It’s a disaster’
The Biden administration recently made a significant decision to block new mining in the Powder River Basin, a key region that produces nearly half of the nation’s coal. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) approved an amendment to the Resource Management Plan (RMP) in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address climate change concerns. This decision will prevent any new federal coal leases in the Powder River Basin, which accounts for about 40% of the country’s coal production.
However, President-elect Trump’s transition team has indicated that this decision may be short-lived, as Trump has promised to prioritize U.S. energy dominance during his upcoming administration. The team emphasized Trump’s campaign promise to bolster American-made energy and lower energy costs for consumers. When Trump takes office, he plans to focus on making America energy dominant again, protecting energy jobs, and reducing the cost of living for working families.
The Powder River Basin lease ban covers parts of southeast Montana and northeast Wyoming, making more than 1.7 million acres unavailable for coal leasing within the Miles City Field Office planning area. Montana and Wyoming elected officials, including Sen. Steve Daines and Gov. Greg Gianforte, have criticized the decision, arguing that the region is a vital natural energy resource that supports national security, the energy grid, and high-paying jobs.
Sen. John Barrasso also expressed his opposition to the mining ban, stating that he will work with President Trump to reverse this and other regulations put in place by the Biden administration. The BLM memo cited the transition away from coal to lower-priced natural gas and renewable energy sources as a reason for blocking coal leasing, in line with Biden’s goal of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Environmental groups, such as Earth Justice, supported the mining bans, stating that coal’s era is ending and it’s time to focus on transitioning to clean energy sources. The organization emphasized the importance of investing in workers and healing the environment as the country moves towards a clean energy future.
Overall, the decision to block new mining in the Powder River Basin has sparked debate among state officials, environmental groups, and the incoming Trump administration. It remains to be seen how this decision will impact the region’s economy, energy production, and efforts to combat climate change.
