Green Jobs’ Legislation Raises NIPSCO Ire (Northern Indiana) – Labor unions and environmentalists were elated last Thursday about the potential for new “green jobs” for steel workers after an Indiana House committee passed a comprehensive renewable energy bill. But the Northern Indiana Public Service Co. warns that the bill could increase electricity bills for consumers. More on Northern Indiana.
Three Hundred New Green Jobs Possible for Fayetteville (Fayetteville, AR) – Northwest Arkansas could soon see 300 new jobs begin opening up, thanks to a “Green Valley” non-profit gearing up to bring new companies, technology, and training to the region. The Green Valley Network’s plan is simple: create a lot of new jobs in Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas by bringing in companies focused on sustainability. If it succeeds, experts say it could add up to a big boost for Fayetteville’s economy. More on Fayetteville, AR.
Obama AML Plan: Green Jobs for The Coalfields , Charleston, WV – In his budget proposal to Congress, Obama promised to submit legislation that would stop sending coal tax money from the federal Abandoned Mine Lands program to states that have already cleaned up all of their abandoned coal mines. Money meant to clean up abandoned coal mines is building roads and college buildings and doing all sorts of things besides cleaning up abandoned coal mines. Obama’s proposal could free up $200 million a year that could be spent in the Appalachian coalfields, cleaning up the legacy of 100 years of mining without regulations. The money could be going to pay coal miners to do the same sorts of work they’re already experts at, running heavy equipment and moving earth. Read more on Charleston, WV
Santa Fe Community College Grant Extends to Green Jobs Training (Santa Fe, NM) – Santa Fe Community College has been awarded $528,567 to develop and expand programs in green jobs and provide student scholarships. The funds are coming through the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions and the U.S. Department of Labor Workforce Innovation in Regional Development (WIRED) program. Read more on Santa Fe, NM