The West Virginia Legislature has introduced a resolution recognizing the intent to create the West Virginia Coal Renaissance Act, aimed at revitalizing the state's coal industry following significant declines in coal mining employment and productivity over the past 12 years. This decline was attributed to federal policies under Presidents Obama and Biden that discouraged coal use for electric generation, leading to the closure of coal-fired facilities and widespread job losses in West Virginia. The resolution highlights a shift in political climate following the 2024 General Election, with a renewed focus on coal as a vital energy source, supported by President Trump's energy policies and the commitment of Governor Morrisey to bolster coal production and consumption in the state.

The resolution outlines a collaborative effort between the West Virginia Legislature, the Governor, and the Trump Administration to develop strategies that promote coal usage, including the establishment of new coal-fired plants, regulatory provisions for plant upgrades, and measures to prevent premature closures of existing facilities. The West Virginia Department of Commerce and other relevant agencies are tasked with formulating these strategies under the oversight of the Senate Energy, Industry, and Mining Committee, which will provide quarterly progress reports to ensure accountability and transparency in the implementation of the Coal Renaissance Act.