The EPA Puts Dozens of Permits on Hold

The Wall Street Journal reports:

The Obama administration on Friday put on hold dozens of permits necessary to mine for coal in the Appalachian mountains, escalating a battle with the coal industry over whether the activities damage water quality.

The Environmental Protection Agency said that it would carry out an extensive review of 79 proposed projects, with its initial evaluation taking 15 days. After that, additional concerns will be addressed following consultation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The EPA has the power to veto the permits, which are issued by the Corps.

Some people want much higher energy prices.