HAL ROGERS

Southern and Eastern Kentucky boasts some of the most affordable energy in the world- coal. In recent years coal has become a political issue and many haven’t taken the time to realize how many individuals are affected by sweeping mandates and arbitrary emission deadlines. The reality is that coal produces tens of thousands of jobs here in Appalachia and provides 92% of Kentucky’s power.

Congress has been debating “Cap and Trade”- a bill that would devastate Kentucky’s economy and put thousands out of work. I voted against this boondoggle and have always maintained that we shouldn’t play politics when people’s livelihoods are at stake. “Cap and Trade” may have admirable intentions in reducing greenhouse gases, but in reality it amounts to a $646 billion carbon tax paid by every American citizen- rich or poor, and every American business, small or large. In this economy the last thing we need is a job killing bill that raises your taxes.

We need to transition towards responsible, new energy technologies- not government mandated limits on carbon emissions that will tax you every time you turn on a light switch or drive your kids to school. While we search for renewable sources of energy, we must continue to support clean coal, wind and solar power, biofuels and nuclear power. The ability to reduce our carbon emissions and protect our environment already exists through these alternative sources of energy. We should embrace them, not shackle Kentuckians with another tax at the worst time imaginable.

I also want to highlight the great work that is being done in southern and eastern Kentucky to protect our environment. I created the PRIDE program to keep the Commonwealth beautiful and restore personal responsibility for our natural resources. And let me just say that the redbuds along our roadways are beautiful, the individuals picking up litter and trash is admirable and the work we are doing to ensure that everyone has access to clean water is remarkable. Appalachia is one of the most breathtaking places in America and I am proud of the work that our communities are doing to keep our region clean and preserve it for our children and grandchildren.