National Mining Association (NMA) President and CEO Hal Quinn issued this statement following the president’s State of the Union message last night:
“America’s mining industry is pleased to hear the president’s determination to strengthen our economy, create high-wage jobs and re-build the infrastructure that is vital to our country’s future economic growth. U.S. mineral and coal producers and their equipment suppliers provide resources that will make these aspirations a reality. If the American economy is to be rebuilt on a stronger footing, America’s miners will be an indispensable part of that effort.
“We welcome his call to reform a broken permit system, one that also stymies growth in our mining industry and denies Americans the full benefits of the nation’s mineral wealth. We urge him to expand these reforms to the mining sector.
“In pursuit of his energy ambitions, we hope the president will advance policies that take advantage of new technologies that will strengthen our diverse energy portfolio while providing more efficient and cleaner electricity generation. NMA is committed to working with policymakers on a pathway for this country to use its world leading coal reserves with reduced emissions while also providing consumers with affordable, reliable electricity.
“Dependable, affordable and abundant energy is necessary for every growing economy. America’s coal has helped grow an economy and a middle class that have been the envy of the world. In addition, our minerals are critical to U.S. manufacturing and national defense. With our technological ingenuity and sensible policies, we can ensure coal and minerals continue to make vital contributions to the nation’s prosperity.”