We are writing to express our deep concern regarding the recent implementation of onerous regulations that threaten to destroy the coal industry in North Dakota. As a resident of North Dakota and a stakeholder in our state’s economy, I urge you to reconsider and rescind these detrimental rules.

The coal industry is vital to North Dakota’s economy, providing jobs to thousands of hardworking individuals and contributing significantly to our state’s revenue. However, the new regulations imposed by your administration would place an unsustainable burden on coal producers, leading to widespread job losses and economic hardship for our communities.

Furthermore, these regulations need to adequately consider the technological advancements and environmental efforts made by the coal industry in recent years. North Dakota’s coal producers have invested heavily in cleaner technologies and emission-reduction measures, demonstrating their commitment to environmental stewardship while maintaining the viability of their operations.

EPA has designed a suite of rules specifically designed to force the closure of well-operating coal plants – plants that are the primary source of generation in many states, and the source of grid-saving baseload power across the country – while conducting zero analysis of the collective impact of the rules on grid reliability.

EPA’s rules fail to account for the fact that electricity demand is soaring, grid experts are already issuing warnings concerning plant closures, and there is no adequate replacement ready for the sorely needed, dispatchable generating capacity coal provides once it is shuttered.

By rescinding these onerous rules, you have the opportunity to support the livelihoods of North Dakotans and ensure the continued strength of our region’s economy. Instead of stifling the coal industry, I urge you to work with stakeholders to develop policies that promote responsible energy production while preserving jobs and economic prosperity.

Thank you for considering my concerns, and I hope you will take swift action to support North Dakota’s coal industry.

Sincerely,