FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SEPTEMBER 22, 2022
UMWA supports Energy Independence and Security Act, calls for inclusion in CR
[TRIANGLE, VA] Commenting on the introduction of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2022 by Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) International President Cecil E. Roberts issued the following statement today:
“Americans have seen historic Congressional actions over the past year that have created a potential pathway to a more secure and cleaner future for all of us. But that pathway can soon become just a memory if Congress fails to enact all the tools needed to make it a reality. The Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) is a critical tool that must be made law, and right away.
“Billions of dollars that were included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act will become stranded without passage of the EISA. Hundreds of thousands of potential jobs – which American workers were told just a few weeks ago would be coming soon – are at risk.
“Let’s be clear: the so-called “green energy” future in America cannot happen without more domestic mining, more development of critical infrastructure, more manufacturing. We cannot continue to depend on China or other unreliable nations to provide the materials needed to create that future.
“It must be done responsibly and with respect for the environment, which this legislation ensures. It also must be done much faster than is now possible, or we will find ourselves putting even more workers in the unemployment line while falling behind in meeting our energy and emissions goals.
“The time for action is now. The Continuing Resolution to fund the federal government is coming before Congress in the next few days. The EISA should be part of it, enabling us to start right away building our nation’s future.”
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