For Additional Information:
John Grasser (202) 463-2651
Karen Batra (202) 463-2651

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May17, 2001

STATEMENT ON THE BUSH ADMINISTRATION'S NATIONAL ENERGY STRATEGY BY JACK GERARD, NATIONAL MINING ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT AND CEO

"For too long America has been asleep at the wheel on the highway to the energy future. We have not checked to see how empty our tank really is.

"It took the California energy situation to send a wake-up call and make us realize the tank is almost empty -- whether it's electricity, gasoline, or home heating oil -- and unless something is done to fill it the rest of the country will soon experience what we've witnessed in California.

"The Bush administration has heeded this warning and responded with what appears to be an energy plan based on technological solutions embracing conservation, energy efficiencies, and utilizing all domestic energy sources.

"This is good news for America and energy consumers and is the first time in America's history we've had anything closely resembling a comprehensive strategy aimed at securing our economic and energy future.

"We must recognize that our nation is and will remain dependent on oil, natural gas, nuclear energy, and especially coal for many years to come. In order for us to efficiently use the 275-year reserve of coal we have in this country, it is absolutely critical that an energy strategy allows for the continued development and utilization of the highly efficient clean coal technologies.

"It is now up to the Congress to put the realities of the energy situation above politics and work closely with the White House to expeditiously move forward measures embracing a comprehensive national energy strategy. And they must insure it meets not only our energy needs, but our environmental goals as well. America's future depends on it."

NMA President and CEO Jack Gerard is available for interviews/comments on the Bush Administration's National Energy Strategy.