coal

In the past, the United Mine Workers of America has accused McConnell of blocking pension and health benefits for miners.

Monday's change would loosen some of the requirements for cleaning up the waste streams from coal-fired power plants.

The department is reviewing the ruling and expects to work with others to see if they will appeal, department spokesman Keith Guille said Wednesday.

The companies expect to save $120 million a year over the first 10 years of working together.

State officials said they were optimistic on reaching a deal with the Navajo Transitional Energy Company.

Utility companies increasingly are turning to cheaper natural gas and increasingly affordable renewable energy to generate electricity.

Kemmerer officials say they will also use the funding to hire a person to carry out the plan.

Blackjewel attorneys say the companies will seek replacement bonds.

The purchase makes the Navajo company the third largest coal producer in the United States.

The company will file its final 2019 plan with state regulatory commissions by Oct. 18.