West Virginia Governor Sues Obama Administration Over Coal Mining - FoxNews.com
Manchin is a Democrat, and is running to finish Robert Byrd’s term, against Republican
candidate John Raese, who is trying to link Manchin to Obama.
The story goes on to say the timing of the lawsuit is “curious”, coming as it does just now during the race for Byrd’s slot, but the lawsuit apparently was in the works as early as April, and Byrd died in June, so I don’t see that there’s much “curious” about it as regards the campaign for Byrd’s slot.
I’ll add I have particular sympathy for West Virginia’s position on this, given that Louisiana has a similar issue with the moratorium on drilling.
Gov. Joe Manchin announced a lawsuit Wednesday that challenges the Obama administration’s efforts to curb mountaintop removal coal mining.
Manchin said the administration’s Environmental Protection Agency is illegally holding up federal water quality permits that mines need to dispose of excess rock. Manchin said the agency is usurping the state’s rights.
“The EPA’s illegal actions unfortunately will hurt the West Virginia economy,” Manchin said. “It’s a shame when you have to sue your own government.”