The Biden administration has proposed ending new coal leasing on federal lands and underground mineral reserves in the Powder River Basin in northeast Wyoming and southeast Montana, the largest coal-producing region in the United States. The U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) published two proposed plans that would prevent companies from applying for new coal mining rights on federally owned lands covering more than 13 million acres across the two states. This marks President Joe Biden’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
In response to a court order, the BLM elected a “no future coal leasing alternative” in its final environmental impact statement for the two proposals due to significant consequences to the climate, public health, and the environment. The plans, subject to a 30-day public protest period, would not affect existing leases, allowing production to continue at mines in Wyoming until 2041 and in Montana until 2060.
Despite the proposal winning praise from environmental groups and climate advocates, it faced backlash from the National Mining Association (NMA), which criticized it for damaging American energy security. Republican lawmakers also criticized the plan, accusing the Biden administration of targeting coal communities and families in the region.
This proposal follows the Biden administration’s recent finalization of new air quality regulations for fossil-fuel-fired power plants, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to tackling climate change and protecting communities from pollution.
In conclusion, the Biden administration’s proposal to end new coal leasing in the Powder River Basin reflects a shift towards clean energy and environmental protection, while also facing opposition from industry and lawmakers. Please rewrite this sentence.
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