John Dawes, of the PA AML Campaign, reported this week Congress failed to act on legislation reauthorizing the federal fee used to fund the federal Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program before adjourning for fall elections.

The PA AML Campaign is working with citizens in other historic production states, the coal industry, UMWA, national and regional conservation and hunting/fishing groups to get Congressional action on the legislation.

“Despite our best efforts and hard work by all the other interests we've been working with, the Senate majority leadership blocked several efforts on the Senate floor -- and an effort within the majority caucus -- and refused to consider separating AML, tax extenders, R&D credit or any provisions from the estate tax/minimum wage bill for Senate consideration,” said Dawes.

“It is important that the PA AML Campaign maintain its legislative nonpartisan focus so that AML reauthorization is a top priority for Congress when it returns for the lame duck session on November 13,” said Dawes.

“Until November 13, our AML Campaign needs to continue building broad support for AML reauthorization in 2006 and to obtain commitments from the PA Congressional delegation to finally deliver AML reauthorization in law. We will also continue to work with our broader coalition and reach out to Members of Congress from other states.

“Our Campaign should be very proud of our cohesive, cooperative efforts. To be successful in the lame duck session, we must maintain our legislative momentum.”

· Video Blog: Watch Dawes’ comments on AML Fund reauthorization.

Link: Job Not Done to Reauthorize Federal Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fee

Show Your Organization’s Support for Reauthorization

10/7/2006