Representative Supports Solutions to Protect Coal Jobs and Make Energy More Affordable

WASHINGTON – Representative Bill Johnson (R-Marietta) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives voted to pass H.R. 2, the American Energy Solutions for Lower Costs and More American Jobs Act – a package of energy bills that have already passed the House once, but remain buried on Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid’s desk. One of the bills included in the package is Rep. Johnson’s Preventing Government Waste and Protecting Coal Mining Jobs in America Act.

“For too long, Americans have suffered under increased costs of living. They’re paying more for groceries, more at the gas pump, and more at the doctor’s office. Now, they’re being asked to pay more for their heating and cooling costs because of this administration’s reluctance to consider House passed bills that would lower the cost of electricity, create jobs, and strengthen our energy security,” Bill Johnson said.

“In passing this bipartisan legislation, the House of Representatives did for the second time what the Senate has failed to do even once. These important energy bills are part of the solution for many of the economic burdens Americans continue to suffer from under this administration. Time and time again, I’ve seen the very real consequences this administration’s attacks on the coal industry have had on the people of Eastern and Southeastern Ohio. My legislation protects jobs in the coal mine and in the industries that support the coal mining industry, and it keeps hard-working Americans from having to pay more to cool and heat their homes. I urge President Obama to pick up his phone and urge Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to consider these important bills, so he can use his pen and sign them into law – because the American people deserve better.”