East Arizona News

State Representative David Marshall, along with 22 other Republican members of the Arizona House and Senate, has addressed a letter to U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. The letter urges the Secretary to prevent the retirement of coal-fired power plants in Arizona and to support the reactivation of those that have already been shut down.

Representative Marshall said, "Coal has powered this state for decades and provided jobs for Arizona families." He criticized federal policies that he believes have led to unnecessary closures, particularly affecting towns like Joseph City and Page. According to Marshall, these closures have caused significant economic challenges in northern and eastern Arizona communities.

The request from Arizona Republicans aligns with Executive Orders 14154 and 14156 issued by President Donald J. Trump. These orders declare a national energy emergency and aim to boost domestic energy production, including coal. The lawmakers are seeking immediate action to preserve units at the Cholla Power Plant near Joseph City and revive generation at sites like the Navajo Generating Station near Page.

Marshall expressed concern over the impact of plant closures on local economies: "The war on coal has devastated northern Arizona," he said. He emphasized the need to protect these communities from further economic decline due to environmental regulations.

David Marshall represents Legislative District 7 in Arizona, which includes Pinal, Gila, Coconino, and Navajo Counties. He serves as Chairman of the House Committee on Public Safety & Law Enforcement.

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