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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 20, 2000

NMA PRESIDENT UNITES WITH ENERGY ASSOCIATION TO SUPPORT SOUND ENERGY POLICES

Washington - In a letter to President-Elect George W. Bush, National Mining Association President and Chief Executive Officer Jack N. Gerard, along with the presidents of five other major energy organizations, pledged their support in addressing America's energy issues.

"I am pleased to join with the heads of our fellow energy supply associations as we endeavor to work in partnership with the president-elect and the Congress in ensuring American consumers and businesses have access to reliable, reasonably-priced energy," said Gerard.

In the letter, the heads of the American Gas Association, Edison Electric Institute, Interstate Natural Gas Association of America, the National Mining Association, Natural Gas Supply Association, and the Nuclear Energy Institute, propose to "promote policies that will help us deliver reliable energy at affordable prices."

"The coal industry, which supplies over 50% of our nation's electricity, is proud to be an integral part of our nation's energy equation," Gerard said in separate remarks. "Coal is not only America's most reliable, plentiful, and affordable energy resource, but thanks to clean-coal technologies, coal use and greater protection of our environment go hand in hand. The fact is, coal is not only an important part of our country’s present, but also its future, and this plentiful source of electric power is going to be crucial in meeting the energy needs here in America and around the world for years to come," Gerard explained.

"The economic engine that drives the United States' prosperity is fueled by reliable and low cost energy. The nation needs all forms of energy to keep that motor running smoothly," said Gerard. "I look forward to working with the new Administration to make America's energy promise, America's energy future."

A copy of the letter was also sent to Vice President Elect Richard Cheney who, during the presidential campaign, spoke extensively about the development of sound energy and natural resource policies.

The U.S. mining industry produces coal, metals, building materials, and many other essential minerals that define the daily lives of 267 million Americans. The mining industry generates over $500 billion in total economic benefit each year and helps to sustain nearly 5 million U.S. jobs.