Wyoming's congressional delegation issued statements about the layoffs from the closures of the Eagle Butte and Belle Ayr mines after operating company Blackjewel, LLC, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization on Monday.

U.S. Sen. Mike Enzi:

“Diana and I were devastated to learn about the Eagle Butte and Belle Ayr mines layoffs. We send our heartfelt sympathies to everyone impacted by this horrible news. This kind of unexpected, mass layoff does not benefit anyone. It immediately affects our families, friends and neighbors in very real ways. It ripples through our communities, our state and our economy. This is not the first time we have faced such heartbreaking news, but I am always amazed by the strength of our community to help those in need. I work every day trying to help the folks in our state, and I will work with Governor Gordon and the rest of the Wyoming delegation to fight for the best possible outcome for our Wyoming workers and our community.”

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso:

“Any time there is a layoff of workers in Wyoming, it’s heartbreaking. The situation at Eagle Butte and Belle Ayr mines is devastating for hundreds of workers, their families and the communities they support. I’ve spoken to Governor Gordon and pledged to help in any way possible. I will continue to support efforts by the governor and our state and local agencies to help the workers and communities who are directly impacted.”

Rep. Liz Cheney:

"Yesterday’s news is devastating for the individuals and families affected, as well as for our entire state. While the Trump Administration has made great strides in reversing President Obama’s War on Coal, a number of factors, including the far-reaching impact of regulations that unfairly penalize this industry, are still causing pain in Wyoming.

“Coal from Wyoming’s Powder River Basin is the cleanest in the world and provides power to 27 states. Ensuring the reliability of our electric grid by supporting coal — a crucial baseload power source — is an economic and national security priority.

“I will continue working with the Trump administration, our congressional delegation, Governor Gordon and other state and local officials to support our Wyoming coal industry. I will be traveling to Gillette this week to meet with community leaders and those affected by these closures to ensure we are doing everything possible to help.”

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