Wyoming Legislative Committee Backs Coal Marketing Idea

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Some Wyoming lawmakers are getting behind a proposal to try to boost the state's struggling coal industry with a marketing program.

The Joint Minerals, Business and Economic Development Committee voted Friday to support a bill that would put $1 million toward the effort. The Wyoming Tribune Eagle reports the bill could be considered during the 2020 legislative session.

Gov. Mark Gordon policy adviser Renny MacKay says that besides promoting low-sulfur Powder River Basin coal, the program would help Wyoming officials make sure their positions are heard in decisions affecting the coal industry.

MacKay says one example could be discussions about possibly closing an Indiana power plant that uses Wyoming coal. MacKay says the plant's closure could cost Wyoming $10 million in revenue a year.