A new coal mining project in Tennessee has been approved and fast-tracked through revised federal environmental review procedures enacted after President Donald Trump declared a national emergency earlier this year. The unnamed company behind the project is expected to extract up to 1.8 million tons of coal over the next decade.
According to federal and state officials, the permitting process was accelerated due to emergency provisions designed to reduce regulatory delays in energy and infrastructure projects deemed critical to national interest.
The mine’s development marks a significant addition to the state’s coal production footprint, which had been in long-term decline. Trump administration officials say the mine aligns with broader energy security goals.
Environmental groups have expressed concern over the expedited review process, citing long-term impacts on local ecosystems and public health. A formal public comment window was shortened due to the emergency order.
