Coal-Impacted Communities Economic and Workforce Development Grant program established, new fund created, distribution of rent and royalties of federal coal lease sales

HB 285 establishes a grant program to fund economic and workforce development initiatives in Alabama's coal-impacted communities using revenues from federal coal lease sales. The bill creates a dedicated "Renewing Coal-Impacted Communities Act Fund" in the state treasury, which will receive rent and royalty payments from federal coal leases starting January 1, 2027. Grants can support workforce training, infrastructure improvements, community development projects, and operations of the Alabama Surface Mining Commission. The program targets designated coal-impacted areas - including Fayette, Jefferson, Tuscaloosa, and Walker counties - and requires an advisory committee with local community representation to review applications and recommend funding.