Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) has expressed support for the Department of the Interior’s recent decision to proceed with coal lease sales in Alabama, Utah, and Montana.
“Coal has long played an important role in fueling our economy and providing good-paying jobs, especially here in Alabama. The announcement that the Department of the Interior will move forward with competitive coal lease sales in Tuscaloosa County is welcome news for our state’s workers and for America’s energy future.
“The two lease areas being offered cover about 14,000 acres and contain an estimated 53 million tons of metallurgical coal, which is vital for steelmaking and has been recognized as a critical material under the Energy Act of 2020. These resources will help ensure America maintains its industrial strength, while also creating opportunities for families and communities across West Alabama.
“I am encouraged by this continued focus on American energy independence and resource security. By responsibly developing our domestic energy and mineral resources, we can support local economies, reduce reliance on foreign supply chains, and strengthen our national security.”
The Bureau of Land Management plans to hold a sealed-bid sale for the Alabama tracts on September 30, 2025 at its Eastern States Office in Falls Church, Virginia. Lease sales are also scheduled in Emery County, Utah and Big Horn County, Montana.
Aderholt has represented Alabama’s 4th district in Congress since 1997 after succeeding Tom Bevill. He previously served in the Alabama House of Representatives. Born in Haleyville, Alabama in 1965, Aderholt graduated from Birmingham–Southern College with a BA before earning his JD from Samford University.
