Barrasso Introduces Bill to Unleash Wyoming Coal Production

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) introduced legislation to reduce barriers to coal leasing and unleash Wyoming coal production. The legislation extends the bonus payment period for coal mine leases from five to ten years, allowing coal companies to defer payment on a portion of their investment until after new mines become profitable.

The bill is co-sponsored by Sens. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) and Mike Lee (R-Utah). Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives in March 2026.

"Nearly half of all coal produced in America comes from Wyoming. Wyoming coal provides our nation with safe, reliable, and affordable energy," said Senator Barrasso. "I'm proud to join Rep. Hageman in introducing legislation to reduce barriers to investment for coal companies looking to build new mines. This will give coal mines in Wyoming and across the country the certainty they need to power homes and businesses and lower energy prices for American families."

"America runs on reliable, affordable energy, and coal is a key component of this equation. Reforming bonus bid policies increases financial flexibility, helping to unleash domestic coal production and strengthening our path to lasting energy security. I'm pleased to partner with Senator Barrasso and Representative Hageman to keep Wyoming coal at the heart of America's energy story and the lights on for every American who depends on it," said Senator Lummis.

Currently, coal companies pay bonuses to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) as part of the competitive bidding process for coal mine leases. These bonuses are required to be paid over a five-year period, which often concludes before new mines begin generating revenue. In line with President Trump's executive order to revitalize the American coal industry, the legislation extends the bonus payment period to ten years, reducing the upfront risk for coal companies looking to build new mines.

The legislation is endorsed by the Wyoming Mining Association, the Wyoming Energy Authority, and the National Mining Association.

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