Congressman James Comer on Friday praised the U.S. House of Representatives for passing a spending bill that will provide $134 million for the Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization Program. Comer said he was able to secure language ensuring Western Kentucky counties reclaim abandoned coal-mining sites and boost local economic development.
In a news release, Comer called the passage of the new federal budget a major win for Western Kentucky coal communities. He announced that, for the first time, local counties are now eligible for Abandoned Mine Land grants to help reclaim mine sites and boost the local economy. Comer also thanked Representative Hal Rogers for supporting the effort to bring new opportunities to the region.
The Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization Program, established in 2016, helps turn old coal sites into valuable community and economic projects. Until now, eleven Western Kentucky counties were not eligible for funds. The new language, supported by Congressmen Comer and Rogers, now gives these counties a fair chance at receiving federal funding by prioritizing geographic balance.
Hopkins County Judge-Executive Jack Whitfield said that Western Kentucky can now access the AMLER program funding for the first time. He applauded Congressmen Rogers and Comer for making all coalfield counties eligible and for their commitment to local communities.
Webster County Judge-Executive Steve Henry called the AMLER bill a major victory that finally gives the region access to much-needed funds for economic and community growth. He also credited Congressman Comer for his persistent work and thanked Congressman Rogers for launching the AMLER program, which now benefits rural coal communities.
Union County Judge-Executive Adam O’Nan also expressed his gratitude that AMLER funding, previously available only to Eastern Kentucky, now supports Western Kentucky as well. He thanked both Congressmen for ensuring projects in the area have a renewed chance at funding.
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