Its good this sleazy ask of the government saw the light of day. If coal is so wonderful there's no reason for government to intervene and protect its demand. When the economy cratered people's homes weren't saved from foreclosure, the construction industry wasn't bailed out, retail isn't being bailed out today, etc. Coal is no longer competitive against Natural Gas, solar and wind.  Even domestic oil is cheaper than coal.  If politicians cared about coal workers they'd provide training money and reasonable incentives for companies to locate in coal mine areas. As a homeowner and business owner I have no problem paying less for energy because the source and transportation costs have gone down, and likely will continue to do so.  I have nothing against clean air and water too.