The concurrent resolution designates December 6th as "Miner's Day" in North Dakota to honor the contributions of coal miners to the state's economy and energy security. It highlights the lignite coal industry's significant role, noting that it generates 55% of the state's electricity, supports over 12,000 jobs, and contributes more than $5.5 billion in business activity. The resolution emphasizes the importance of coal in providing affordable energy, maintaining low electricity rates, and ensuring long-term energy independence, while also recognizing the potential for extracting rare earth elements from lignite coal deposits to diversify the economy.
Furthermore, the resolution calls on the federal government to avoid regulations that threaten the reliability and affordability of electric power in North Dakota. It urges the repeal of the 2009 Endangerment Finding to create a balanced regulatory environment that supports coal-based energy production while addressing environmental concerns. The resolution advocates for fair competition among various energy resources and encourages collaboration between federal agencies and the state to advance technological innovations in coal and related sectors, ensuring the continued viability of coal as a critical energy source.