Letter to the Editor: Manufacturing jobs linked to energy policy

Dear Editor,

On the heels of President Barack Obama visiting Missouri for a renewed push on jumpstarting the nation’s economy, he should be reminded of one of the critical links to the state’s vibrant manufacturing base and a leading partner in Missouri’s economic growth: the coal industry.

Coal generates about 80 percent of the state’s electricity, which translates into a steady supply of affordable and reliable electricity. It’s no small wonder, then, that Missouri attracts leading manufacturers to the state responsible for more than 247,000 jobs – including machinery, computers and electronics, plastics and rubber, fabricated metal products, appliances and mining. In fact, states with high percentages of electricity generated by coal boast the highest levels of manufacturing thanks to that steady supply of affordable electricity.

Unfortunately, thousands of these manufacturing jobs will be at risk if the administration moves forward on new standards to regulate greenhouse gas emissions that effectively ban construction of new coal-fired power plants.

Coal’s potential to support the state’s economy is being jeopardized at a time when the nation’s unemployment remains at 7.6 percent and economic growth remains uncertain. Damaging the state’s coal industry will stall high-wage job creation and raise the cost of electricity for consumers – including local families and businesses. This is no way to jumpstart the job market in Missouri.

We are committed to being a partner in America’s clean energy future and to working toward reasonable standards to achieve that goal.

Tens of billions of dollars are being invested already to upgrade existing coal plants to meet tougher emission standards.

But we also are committed to a future of affordable energy that provides all Americans with the reliable energy they deserve.

To do that, we need thoughtful policies that allow the most advanced, low-emission coal-based power plants to be built. That way, all of us can continue to enjoy a stable, affordable and clean supply of electricity for our homes and businesses alike.

As a candidate for the U.S. Senate in 2004, Obama reminded Americans, “there’s always going to be a role for coal.” We couldn’t agree with you more, Mr. President. And that role today is the same as it was in 2004: to create good paying jobs and deliver reliable and affordable electricity.  

—Ray McCarty, Associated Industries of Missouri president, and Hal Quinn, National Mining Association president/CEO[[In-content Ad]]