SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Senator Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro), Minority Spokesperson for the Senate Energy and Public Utilities Committee, issued the following statement in response to President Donald Trump’s new executive orders aimed at revitalizing the American coal industry:
“President Trump’s executive action is welcome news for Southern Illinois and working families across the country. For too long, federal overregulation, combined with shortsighted state energy policies within Illinois, has waged war on coal communities, shuttered plants, and driven up energy costs on hardworking Illinoisans.
“With energy demands climbing due to AI, data centers, and the onshoring of industry, we need every available tool to keep our grid reliable and energy affordable. These directives would help ensure that communities like mine aren’t left behind as Illinois continues to face growing energy pressures.
“Coal remains a critical part of our state’s energy portfolio, and I will continue to fight for an energy future that values affordability, reliability, and the jobs that keep Southern Illinois strong.”