Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and several Senate Republicans have introduced a resolution to designate the week of October 19, 2025, as “Coal Week.” The purpose of this ceremonial resolution is to recognize the contributions of the American coal industry and its workers.
The resolution is co-sponsored by Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), John Hoeven (R-ND), Mike Lee (R-UT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), and Tim Sheehy (R-MT). Congressman Mike Kennedy from Utah will introduce a similar measure in the House.
“I am introducing a resolution to make this week ‘Coal Week’ because we must never forget the industry that powers America and sustains Wyoming families with good-paying jobs,” said Cynthia Lummis. “For years, the Biden and Obama administrations waged a relentless war on American coal, killing jobs, undermining our communities, and driving up energy costs for everyday Americans. Under President Trump’s pro-energy leadership, we are fighting back and reversing that destructive agenda. Wyoming coal is reliable American energy, and I won’t apologize for celebrating the miners and families who deliver it.”
Dan Sullivan stated: “I’ve long supported an all-of-the-above energy strategy that keeps America strong, lowers costs for working families, and supports good paying jobs in my great state and across the nation. Alaska’s coal miners have a long history of supplying safe, responsible energy production for decades, supplying our Interior Alaska communities and military installations with reliable heat and power. With a partner in President Trump, we’re reversing disastrous Biden-era policies that hindered the use of coal powered generation and blocked responsible resource development across Alaska and our country. Coal Week reminds us of how vital American energy dominance is to our national security and our economic success.”
John Barrasso emphasized coal’s role in powering homes nationwide: “In Wyoming, we know firsthand how important coal is to keeping the lights on across the country. It’s one of the most affordable, reliable, and abundant sources of energy on the planet. National Coal Week is an opportunity to celebrate this critical resource and honor Wyoming’s energy workers who work hard every day to help power our nation.”
Shelley Moore Capito commented on West Virginia’s legacy: “Coal is a vital resource that keeps our lights on, spurs economic and industrial progress, and is at the center of our identity in my home state of West Virginia. West Virginia coal has been used to fortify our country, connect communities with railroads, bridges, and highways, and provided access to reliable electricity that Americans need and deserve all across our nation. None of this is possible without the dedicated work of our coal miners and their families, who will always have my thankfulness and support as I continue to advocate for American energy generation through coal in West Virginia. Coal is a central aspect of our culture and history that has withstood the test of time, and something we must continue to invest in.”
Mike Lee noted Utah’s dependence on coal: “Nearly half of Utah’s electricity generation is produced from coal and our state boasts some of the lowest electricity costs in the country. Coal fired generation built this country and will continue to provide reliable power for decades to come. I am proud to co-sponsor this resolution supporting the designation of Coal Week and will continue to work as Chairman of ENR to end the war on reliable, affordable energy.”
Jim Justice said: “Energy is absolutely everything. It drives our nation forward, and for generations, coal has been the backbone. During Coal Week, we honor the hardworking women and men who keep America running and continue West Virginias’ proud legacy as an energy leader.”
Tim Sheehy highlighted future demand: “Coal keeps the lights on, and supporting America’s coal industry is exactly the kind of America First common sense the people voted for last year. Whether it’s for homes, data centers, quantum computing, AI or crypto—we will see an exponential increase in demand for reliable baseload power in coming years. I’m proud to join my colleagues on this resolution supporting our coal industry…”
Congressman Mike Kennedy added: “Coal has fueled American industry powered progress for generations…we should honor hardworking men women who keep lights economy strong…I’m proud officially designate week as ‘Coal Week’ recognize their vital role in America’s energy security prosperity.”
National Mining Association President & CEO Rich Nolan expressed appreciation: “While AI data centers drive electricity demands increasingly higher…America’s miners are ready meet need by supplying abundant affordable reliable energy materials consumers…I thank Senators Lummis Lee Capito Hoeven Sullivan Justice McConnell Sheehy Blackburn Representative Mike Kennedy strong support Coal Week Resolution urge its support.”
The full text of the resolution can be accessed online.
