I want to commend Gov. Steve Beshear, Attorney General Jack Conway and U.S. Reps. Ben Chandler and John Yarmuth for writing letters in opposition to the proposed changes to mountaintop mining disposal protocols.

Relaxing environmental regulations on coal companies in Kentucky would result in an increase in stream and water pollution and perhaps in some cases even extinguish waterways. Water is an extremely important resource and Kentucky cannot afford to diminish any water sources. Kentucky’s health should be a priority to both Republicans and Democrats.

Traditionally environmental concern has been seen as a Democratic initiative. It is time to realize the Republican Party can receive just as many benefits to stand proudly behind environmental initiatives. Mountaintop mining is the perfect example. Environmental problems caused by corporations must eventually be addressed either by the corporation or the government.

It is wonderful that Republicans realize that fiscal conservancy is more easily accomplished when polluting corporations are held responsible for the consequences of their own actions. If these mountaintop restrictions are disbanded, Kentucky taxpayers will eventually foot the bill. Additionally they may be strapped to decreased water quality or agricultural droughts. Environmental health affects everyone. Kentucky’s citizens should not have to pay the consequences of the Bush administration’s disdain for this rules smartly put in place by the Reagan administration.

I cannot think of a single benefit Kentuckians would receive as a result of relaxed mining regulations. For this reason I hope that Sens. Mitch McConnell and Jim Bunning soon follow with actions of their own to protest these changes.

Jenna Smith

Alvaton