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Bozeman Democrat proposes studying coal phase-out

Montana senators are considering studying the potential effects of phasing out coal mining in the state.

Democratic Sen. Mike Phillips of Bozeman proposed Senate Joint Resolution 17 in the Senate Natural Resources Committee on Wednesday.

The measure would establish an interim committee to analyze the economic, health and environmental effects of discontinuing Montana coal mining and coal-fired generation. It would also look at minimizing repercussions for communities that rely on coal.

Coal industry representatives opposed the measure, saying it would conjure arguments for ending one of Montana's most important economic sectors.

Phillips said the study could be advantageous for the future of coal in Montana if industry proponents are confident that results will turn out in their favor. He said he would welcome amendments to also study how to expand coal production.

source: http://mtstandard.com