H.R.280 - Combating Obstruction Against Leasing Act of 2025; COAL Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 280, the Combating Obstruction Against Leasing Act of 2025 (COAL Act of 2025), aims to expedite the coal leasing process by requiring the Secretary of the Interior to take specific actions regarding qualified coal applications. This includes publishing draft environmental assessments, finalizing fair market values, and granting pending applications. The bill also mandates the approval of additional permits required for mining activities on previously awarded coal leases.
Expected Effects
The bill is likely to increase coal production by streamlining the leasing and permitting processes. It also nullifies Secretarial Order 3338, which could lead to changes in federal coal leasing program reviews. This could lead to increased mining activity on federal lands.
Potential Benefits
- Increased domestic energy production.
- Potential job creation in the coal mining industry.
- Reduced reliance on foreign energy sources.
- Streamlined regulatory processes for coal leasing.
- Potential revenue generation for the government through lease sales.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential negative environmental impacts from increased coal mining.
- Possible conflicts with climate change mitigation efforts.
- Concerns about air and water quality near mining sites.
- Potential impacts on biodiversity and ecosystems.
- Possible reduction in public input on coal leasing decisions.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is primarily related to Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8). The extent to which the bill impacts environmental regulations could be subject to scrutiny under the Tenth Amendment, regarding powers reserved to the states. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual rights or liberties outlined in the Bill of Rights.
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).