National Coal Council Reestablishment Act
Summary
The National Coal Council Reestablishment Act aims to reestablish the National Coal Council within the Department of Energy. The council will advise the Secretary of Energy on matters related to coal and the coal industry. The Act ensures the council operates under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, promoting transparency.
However, it specifically exempts the council from Section 1013 of Title 5, which concerns the automatic termination of advisory committees. This re-establishment seeks to provide ongoing guidance on coal-related issues.
The bill was passed by the House of Representatives on September 18, 2025.
Expected Effects
The re-establishment of the National Coal Council will likely lead to continued advocacy for the coal industry within the Department of Energy. This could influence energy policy and research priorities.
The council's advice may shape regulations, funding allocations, and strategic decisions related to coal. The exemption from automatic termination suggests a long-term commitment to this advisory role.
This could result in policies that support coal production and use, potentially impacting other energy sectors and environmental considerations.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a dedicated advisory body for coal-related issues within the Department of Energy.
- Ensures the Secretary of Energy receives specialized advice on the coal industry.
- May support job creation and economic activity in coal-producing regions.
- Could promote research and development in coal technologies.
- The council's operation under the Federal Advisory Committee Act promotes transparency.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May lead to policies that prioritize coal over cleaner energy sources.
- Could hinder the transition to a more sustainable energy economy.
- May perpetuate environmental concerns associated with coal production and use.
- The exemption from automatic termination could lead to the council becoming entrenched.
- Potential for disproportionate influence of the coal industry on energy policy.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the constitutional principle of promoting the general welfare (Preamble). Congress has the power to legislate on matters related to energy and commerce (Article I, Section 8).
The establishment of advisory councils falls within the scope of necessary and proper legislation. The Act does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
However, the long-term implications for environmental policy and resource allocation could raise questions about intergenerational equity and the government's responsibility to protect natural resources.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).