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HB 285

Coal-Impacted Communities Economic and Workforce Development Grant program established, new fund created, distribution of rent and royalties of federal coal lease sales

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bryan Brinyark

Alabama bill creates grant program and fund distributing federal coal lease revenues to economically support coal-dependent communities' workforce development and diversification.

Read for the Second Time and placed on the Calendar (Ways and Means General Fund)
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Bill Summary · HB 285

Legislative bill overview

HB 285 establishes a Coal-Impacted Communities Economic and Workforce Development Grant program in Alabama and creates a dedicated fund to distribute revenues from federal coal lease sale rent and royalties. The bill aims to direct federal coal revenue directly to communities affected by coal industry activities for economic diversification and worker retraining purposes.

Why is this important

As the coal industry faces long-term decline due to market competition and environmental regulations, coal-dependent communities face significant economic challenges including job loss and reduced tax bases. By capturing federal lease revenues for targeted economic development and workforce programs, the bill attempts to help these communities transition their economies and support displaced workers, though the actual revenue available from federal coal leases is uncertain and has declined nationally.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal revenue dependency: The bill's success depends on ongoing federal coal leasing revenues, which have been volatile and may decrease further if federal leasing programs are reduced or halted
  • Economic sustainability questions: Critics may question whether coal industry-focused economic development adequately addresses the need for long-term, diversified economic growth beyond temporary grants
  • Allocation and accountability: Specifics on how communities are defined as "coal-impacted," how funds will be distributed, and what accountability measures exist are likely unclear in the current bill language

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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