Appeals Court Overturns Federal Coal Leasing Moratorium

The recent ruling could pave the way for new coal sales from public lands, marking a significant shift in U.S. energy policy.

A U.S. appeals court has struck down the Obama-era moratorium on coal leasing from federal lands, potentially opening doors for future coal sales.
The decision is seen as a victory for the mining industry and a setback for environmentalists and Democratic lawmakers.
Coal production from federal lands has declined over the past decade, with a shift towards less polluting energy sources.
The moratorium, initially enacted in 2016 and later rescinded by the Trump administration, was aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions.
Environmental groups and some state officials call for immediate action to end new coal leasing and address its impact on climate change.