Statement: Rogers on Stream Protection Rule Hearing

Statement

U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) submitted his official comments for the record in light of today's hearing in Lexington, Kentucky concerning the Stream Protection Rule proposed by the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE). To read Rogers' entire statement, click here.

"I am dismayed by this agency's decision to host these hearings far away from the coal fields, where those who will be most affected by this rule reside. These are the people whose jobs and communities are threatened, and yet you chose to make it as difficult as possible for them to have their voices be heard. This certainly calls into question whether OSMRE is truly serious about hearing from all stakeholders.

"Nevertheless, they have made the trip here today because they know that this agency needs to hear what they have to say. It is time for this Administration to change its dismissive attitude toward coal miners, their families and the mining culture that has been rooted for centuries in the hills of Appalachia. I encourage you to carefully consider their comments and understand that this rule will have a very real impact on their communities."

Rogers has repeatedly expressed his concerns about OSMRE's mismanagement within the agency and a lack of transparency with coal producing states during the stream buffer zone rule-making process.

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