OSM changing mine permitting process – Open houses & public comment 7-27 & 28

Via the FACES Newsroom (7-27-10)

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement is holding a public “open house” at the Beckley Convention Center today from 3 p.m. – 9 p.m. to discuss potential changes to its already complex mining regulatory program.  A similar event will be held tomorrow – Wednesday, July 28 – in Morgantown at Mylan Park from 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Bill Raney, president of the West Virginia Coal Association, said, “The changes being proposed by OSM – the most sweeping since 1983 – have the potential to destroy thousands of jobs that depend on coal, cripple local communities and hamper the economic vitality of the entire Appalachian region.  I would encourage the public to come out and tell OSM how they feel about the federal government’s continued efforts to eliminate mining in Appalachia.  If you can’t attend in person, send your comments to them via email at sra-eis@osmre.gov

We would encourage all Coalblog readers to take part. Whatever side of the discussion you might come down on, be sure to make your voice heard.