Summary of HR 3015: National Coal Council Reestablishment Act

Purpose and Intent

The National Coal Council Reestablishment Act (HR 3015) aims to reestablish the National Coal Council (NCC) within the Department of Energy (DOE). The council is intended to provide expert advice and recommendations to the Secretary of Energy on issues related to coal and the coal industry. This bill seeks to ensure that coal remains a vital component of the U.S. energy landscape, particularly in light of increasing electricity demands and the need for reliable energy sources.

Key Provisions

• Reestablishment of the NCC: The bill mandates the reestablishment of the NCC in accordance with its charter that was effective on November 19, 2021.
• Advisory Role: The NCC will continue its role as a federal advisory committee, providing guidance on coal-related matters to the Secretary of Energy.
• Compliance with Federal Advisory Committee Act: The NCC will operate under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, ensuring transparency and accountability in its operations, with the exception of certain provisions that do not apply to it.

Background and Need for Legislation

• The U.S. possesses the largest coal reserves globally, with approximately 469 billion short tons of coal. Coal has historically been a cornerstone of American energy production, contributing significantly to electricity generation and industrial processes.
• In 2024, coal-fired power plants generated 16% of the nation’s electricity, supporting over 100,000 direct jobs and approximately 324,000 indirect jobs.
• The bill addresses concerns regarding the premature retirement of coal-fired power plants and aims to stabilize the energy supply amidst increasing demands driven by technological advancements and economic growth.

Impact

• Economic Impact: The reestablishment of the NCC is expected to bolster the coal industry, which plays a crucial role in the economies of many rural and small communities, particularly in Appalachia and the Midwest.
• Energy Security: By providing a platform for expert recommendations, the NCC aims to enhance the reliability of the U.S. energy grid and ensure that coal remains a viable energy source in the face of regulatory challenges and market fluctuations.

Legislative Timeline

• Introduced: April 24, 2025
• House Passage: The bill passed the House on September 18, 2025, with a vote of 217-209.
• Senate Status: As of September 19, 2025, the bill has been received in the Senate, read twice, and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

Sponsors

The bill is primarily sponsored by Michael A. Rulli and has several cosponsors, including:
- Ann Wagner
- H. Morgan Griffith
- Troy Balderson
- Erin Houchin

Related Legislation

• HRES 707: A companion resolution related to the consideration of HR 3015.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of HR 3015, detailing its purpose, provisions, and potential impacts on the coal industry and energy policy in the United States.