The American Energy Worker Opportunity Act of 2024 creates a new federal program to support workers whose jobs are affected by the transition to clean energy. The bill establishes an Office of American Energy Workers within the Treasury Department to administer benefits for workers laid off due to coal mine closures or shutdowns of fossil fuel power plants and refineries. Eligible workers—those employed at least 12 months and averaging 30 hours weekly before closure—receive up to five years of wage replacement payments that make up the difference between their former salary and any new wages or unemployment benefits they receive, along with health insurance premium assistance comparable to what their employer previously contributed. The program also provides retirement savings contributions, educational assistance for workers and their children at public in-state schools or vocational programs, and gives priority hiring consideration when federal clean energy grants are distributed. The bill requires mine and plant operators to notify the Treasury Department at least 90 days before closures and authorizes whatever funding is necessary to operate the program beginning in fiscal year 2025.
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