H.J.Res. 130 · 119th Congress · House
Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Land Management relating to "Buffalo Field Office Record of Decision and
Introduced 2025-10-08 · Sponsored by Rep. Hageman, Harriet M. [R-WY-At Large] (R-WY) · Last updated 2026-03-31
Last action (2025-12-11): Became Public Law No: 119-51.
Summary
Restores coal leasing in Wyoming's Powder River Basin, the most productive coal region in the country. A Biden-era BLM plan had shut the door on all future federal coal leasing in the Buffalo Field Office area. Wyoming produces about 40% of U.S. coal, and this resolution forces BLM back to the pre-2024 rules that kept leasing open.
The Good
Restores coal leasing in Wyoming's Powder River Basin area
The BLM's 2024 amendment had made no federal coal available for future leasing in the Buffalo Field Office area. Wyoming produces roughly 40% of US coal, and the Powder River Basin is the nation's most productive coal region. Reversing this preserves access to these reserves.
Protects Wyoming's largest revenue source
Coal royalties and severance taxes fund a significant portion of Wyoming's state budget, including schools and infrastructure. The state has no income tax, making it especially dependent on mineral extraction revenue.
The Bad
Extends coal dependency in the face of declining market demand
US coal consumption has fallen by more than half since 2008 as utilities switch to cheaper natural gas and renewables. Reopening leases may prolong an industry in structural decline rather than accelerating the transition to more sustainable economic foundations for coal communities.
Undermines climate commitments
Coal is the most carbon-intensive fossil fuel. Opening new federal coal leases commits public resources to decades of greenhouse gas emissions, directly contradicting domestic and international climate goals.
Vote Record
Senate, 2025-11-20
Passage (Senate)
Passed Congress.gov — Senate Roll Call #623
Senate vote by state
Hover over a state to see its delegation
House, 2025-11-18
Passage (House)
Passed Congress.gov — House Roll Call #294
House vote by state
Hover over a state to see its delegation
All Sources
Everything on this page ties back to one of these. Click through if you want to check.