Happy birthday, America!

Independence Day is a reminder to us all to work to make our country less energy dependent.

Energy, the environment and the economy are inextricably linked.

If our government places too much focus on the negatives of coal instead of the positives, it all but guarantees that we will see electricity prices spike in the same manner as natural gas and oil.

Additionally, limiting the use of our most abundant and affordable fuel source (coal) will only increase our dependence on foreign energy sources and increase the threat to our national security.

On America's birthday, don't we deserve an energy policy that keeps our economy running strong, protects our natural resources and ensures our nation's energy security? That would be the best present of all.