Letter: Coal conglomerate’s are not small businesses

<p><strong>To the editor:</strong></p><p>I continue to be a strong supporter (and defender) of large scale fossil fueled power systems. Such systems—historically dependent on coal—have been, and continue to be, one of the major infrastructure underpinnings of America’s acknowledged position as the greatest industrial economy in the world, and an undeniable reliability and cost benefit to virtually all Americans. The Indiana coal industry clearly deserves its share of credit for this accomplishment.</p><p>Having said that, I am offended by the strong arm tactics by major, politically connected Indiana coal industries to pressure state and federal governments to impede private utility decisions to selectively retire older coal fired plants—decisions based on sound economic and environmental reasons. I’m also angered that a major Indiana based, publicly traded coal conglomerate has recently used its political connections to secure a “small business” loan from the federal CARES Act program. The state coal industry may be important, but it is clearly not a “small business.” The industry continues in operation—unlike restaurants, salons and other small retailers—that are dying on the vine because of the current mandated shut down.</p><p>I rarely agree with Kerwin Olson, Director of Citizens Action Coalition, but have no problem with his recent rhetorical question referring to the state coal industry: “Do they really fit the description of small business?”</p><p><p><strong>David A. Nealy</strong></p><p><p><strong>Greenwood</strong></p>