National
Economic
Transition
Platform
Crafted by Local, Tribal & Labor Leaders to Build Sustainable, Resilient, and Equitable Economies for the People and Places Hit Hardest by the Changing Coal Economy
A Visionary Proposal for an Equitable Future
Launched and led by the Just Transition Fund and partners across the country. Learn more.
Read our October 2024 letter to the Presidential candidates. Read our October 2024 Press Release.
The Proposal
7 Platform Pillars
From Appalachia to the Navajo Nation, the people and places hit hard by the changing coal economy are facing a profound and urgent crisis. Yet, as challenges grow, local leaders in America’s coal communities are developing solutions that tackle the climate crisis and create equitable and sustainable economic growth from the ground up. The National Economic Transition Platform is crafted by these leaders to give national policymakers a framework for a comprehensive national transition program that will create vibrant, resilient, and inclusive communities.
1. Local Leadership
Invest in local community-based leaders to help communities plan and respond.
2. Restorative Economic Development
Invest in entrepreneurs and locally-owned small businesses to grow diverse economic sectors.
3. Workforce Development & Worker Health
Provide a broad system of support for workers and viable pathways to quality, family-sustaining jobs.
4. Reclamation
Reclaim, remediate, and reuse coal sites to create jobs while restoring land and clean water.
5. Infrastructure
Invest in physical and social infrastructure to stimulate economic development and build a foundation for change.
6. Bankruptcy
Protect workers, taxpayers, communities, and the environment during bankruptcies.
7. Coordination and Access
Empower local communities by providing direct access to federal resources.