RD312 - 2012 Report of the Virginia Coal and Energy Commission


Executive Summary:
The Coal and Energy Commission is a 20-member legislative body established by Chapter 25 (§ 30-188 et seq.) of Title 30 of the Code of Virginia. It is charged with studying all aspects of coal as an energy resource and endeavoring to stimulate, encourage, promote, and assist in the development of renewable and alternative energy resources.

The Commission created the Uranium Mining Subcommittee by motion on November 6, 2008, asking that it (i) oversee any study conducted by the National Academy of Sciences, (ii) review and comment on all aspects of the study prior to the execution of any agreement regarding its commissioning, (iii) determine whether the proposed study is acceptable, (iv) undertake the study of other issues including economic, environmental, public health, and social factors, and (v) hold sufficient public hearings to assist the full Commission in its determination and recommendation of the appropriate policy for the Commonwealth. The nine-member Subcommittee has three members of the Senate and six members of the House of Delegates. Delegate R. Lee Ware, Jr., serves as the Subcommittee's chairman. The Senate members are Senators John Watkins, Phillip P. Puckett, and Frank W. Wagner. The other House of Delegates members are Delegates Charles W. Carrico, Sr., William R. Janis, Watkins M. Abbitt, Jr., Onzlee Ware, and Clarence E. Phillips.