State Rep. Cook, Bud | Pennsylvania 50th Legislative District
State Rep. Cook, Bud | Pennsylvania 50th Legislative District
Rep. Bud Cook (R-Greene/Washington) and the House Republican Policy Committee, led by Chairman Josh Kail (R-Beaver/Washington), convened a hearing today to discuss the economic benefits of coal. The hearing took place underground in the Harvey mine, where bituminous coal mining has occurred for over 150 years.
The session, titled “Positive Impacts of Coal,” featured testifiers including Rachel Gleason, executive director of the Pennsylvania Coal Alliance; Matt Mackowiak, manager of government affairs at CONSOL Energy; Jim Barker, president of Rosebud Mining Company; and Tom Crooks, vice president of R.G. Johnson Inc.
According to a report by the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, the coal mining industry is crucial to Pennsylvania’s economy, supporting over 11,000 full-time jobs and generating nearly $4 billion in economic output. Specifically, in Greene and Washington counties:
- Approximately 4,050 full- and part-time jobs (2,300 direct).
- More than $1.7 billion in economic output ($1.3 billion direct).
- Over $1 billion added to the regional economy ($856 million direct).
Mattowiak noted that global demand for coal reached record highs last year and is expected to rise further. He argued that despite increasing global demand for renewable energy sources, coal remains essential for manufacturing renewables and requires less land use compared to solar farms or wind turbines.
“Pennsylvania coal is abundant and affordable,” said Cook. “If we want reliable electricity, national security, family-sustaining jobs and vibrant communities, we must support—and protect—Pennsylvania’s coal mining industry.”
Kail added: “The Pennsylvania coal industry’s commitment to producing clean energy and protecting natural resources is commendable. Meanwhile, Democrats’ commitment to transition away from fossil fuels is more detrimental to the environment than people realize.”
To watch the complete hearing, visit pagoppolicy.com/video/policy.
Representative Bud Cook
50th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Patti Hippler
717-772-9846
phippler@pahousegop.com
repbudcook.com
###
Alerts Sign-up