Trump Signs Orders to Boost Coal Industry, Streamline Permits

President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders aimed at bolstering the U.S. coal industry. The orders, signed in the East Room of the White House, are designed to streamline the permitting process for coal mining projects, reduce regulatory burdens, and encourage domestic coal production. White House Chief of Staff Will Shaffer explained that one of the orders directs all departments and agencies to "terminate all discriminatory policies against the coal industry," including the repeal of a previous measure that prohibited coal projects on federal lands.

Shaffer also noted that another order aims to "protect currently operating coal-fired power plants" and ensure the reliability and security of the power grid. Additionally, Trump directed the Department of Justice to investigate state policies that "discriminate against coal."

Earlier in the day, White House Press Secretary Carolyn Levitt announced that Trump would sign an executive order to "revitalize" the coal industry. Levitt emphasized the importance of coal in achieving U.S. leadership in energy and artificial intelligence. Trump has consistently expressed his intention to utilize the country's coal resources, along with oil, natural gas, and nuclear energy. He has also indicated plans to reverse energy policies implemented by s Barack Obama and Joe Biden.

Trump also hinted at enlisting the help of law firms that have agreements with the White House to assist with coal production and tariff agreement matters. Surrounded by coal workers during the signing ceremony, Trump stated, "We will employ some of you, and some great law firms — they are indeed great firms. They have just gone through a tough period, but we will have some of these firms work with you on leasing and other matters, and they will do an outstanding job."

Several law firms, including Skadden Arps, Milbank, and Willkie Farr, have agreed to provide pro bono legal services to the Trump administration during his second term. Trump suggested that these firms could help finalize the "custom-tailored" tariff agreements he seeks. He emphasized the need for a large talent pool to support these efforts, stating, "I think we need to get some of these great law firms to help us with these matters, and we probably will. We will employ them, and we will get them to work for us at a reasonable price. Because we have to — we need a lot of talent."

The executive orders are expected to have a significant impact on the coal industry, potentially leading to increased production and job growth. However, environmental groups have criticized the administration's actions, arguing that they prioritize short-term economic gains over long-term environmental sustainability. The orders are likely to face legal challenges from environmental advocates and other stakeholders who oppose the administration's pro-coal policies.

The administration's push to support the coal industry comes at a time when the U.S. is facing increasing pressure to reduce its carbon emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources. The executive orders are part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to roll back environmental regulations and promote fossil fuel development. The administration has argued that these policies are necessary to ensure energy independence and create jobs, but critics have raised concerns about the environmental and public health impacts of increased coal production.