March 29, 2017 - North Dakota's coal industry is applauding an executive order by President Donald Trump that rolls back former President Barack Obama's plan to cut climate-changing emissions, which was bitterly opposed by coal companies and many voters in coal country.

The order won't put an end to Obama's plan, but will allow U.S. Environmental Protection Agency administrator Scott Pruitt to begin the process of rewriting agency rules.

The president's order, focusing on energy independence "will help preserve, protect and enhance the lignite coal industry," Lignite Energy Council President Jason Bohrer told The Bismarck Tribune.

He said Trump's initiative is good news for the nation, and especially for North Dakota's coal industry.

Basin Electric Power Cooperative CEO Paul Sukut said while the president's order is a positive step forward, it doesn't "impact Basin Electric's efforts to seek a viable path forward in a carbon-constrained future."

"We are actively seeking solutions that reduce our carbon footprint while keeping coal as part of our energy portfolio."

Democrat Sen. Heidi Heitkamp said regulations should be made with realistic goals and achievable timelines.

"We also need strong investments that spur innovation and lower emissions," she said.

The order also addresses several energy industry regulations, such as moratorium on new coal mining leases on federal land and limits on methane emissions in oil and gas extraction.

"The president's order ensures that our coal industry can grow and innovate," said Republican Sen. John Hoeven.