July 30, 2026 - The U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee on Wednesday passed a bill by U.S. Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., to reduce barriers to coal leasing and "unleash American coal production," a news release from Barrasso's office said.

If passed into law, the legislation would extend the bonus payment period for coal mine leases from five to 10 years, allowing coal companies to defer payment on a portion of their investment until after new mines become profitable.

“Nearly half of all coal produced in America comes from Wyoming. Wyoming coal provides our nation with safe, reliable, and affordable energy,” Barrasso said in the release. “My legislation would extend the bonus payment period for coal mine leases, which allows coal companies to spread out their financial risk when investing in new mines. This will give coal mines in Wyoming and across the country the certainty they need to power homes and businesses and lower energy prices for American families. Today’s committee vote is an important step to getting this energy security bill across the finish line.”

The bill is co-sponsored by U.S. Sens. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., and Mike Lee, R-Utah. In March, U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyo., introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The legislation is endorsed by the Wyoming Mining Association, the Wyoming Energy Authority and the National Mining Association.