Nearly $725M put aside to reclaim abandoned Kentucky coal mines

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – Officials say as part of President Donald J. Trump’s America First Energy Agenda, the Department of the Interior announced the availability of nearly $725 million in fiscal year 2025 funding to clean up abandoned coal mines and “restore opportunity” in America’s coal communities. 

Officials say the funding, managed by the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE), supports state and tribal-led efforts to eliminate mine hazards, restore clean water access and transform abandoned lands into “economic engines.”

“President Trump made it clear that no American community should be left behind—and today we’re delivering on that promise,” said Adam Suess, Acting Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management. “This is about unleashing new opportunities and putting people back to work. These grants are proof that we can clean up the past while building a stronger energy future.” 

OSMRE says 22 eligible states and the Navajo Nation will receive funding under this program, with grants based on historic coal production. States and tribes will lead project selection and oversee implementation, ensuring solutions are customized to local needs and conditions. In terms of the Tri-State, the “Top Fiscal Year 2025 Awards” were given to Kentucky and Illinois. Kentucky received $74.2 million while Illinois received $75.7 million.

“Working with our state and tribal partners to restore abandoned mine lands confirms our commitment to the communities that powered our country for generations,” said Thomas Shope, OSMRE Regional Director, exercising the delegated authority of the Director. “Rather than leaving these lands to waste, we are putting them back to work for the American people.”