Coal-powered plant facilities do cause health and environmental problems. With Democrats in power, Virginia is the first of the southern states to pass progressive legislation. One of the landmark state laws passed in Virginia has mandated the shutdown of major coal-fueled power plant facilities by the year 2025. The move shows that the state recognizes the suffering of the residents settled near coal power plants. What the state can't and shouldn't do is pay for related medical conditions, this is the responsibility of the coal-companies themselves. 

Virginia is moving towards clean energy initiatives to advance environmental reparative measures. However, this new law not only propels the environmental narrative, but is also a great indication of the need to minimize the health risks that the coal-related operations pose. The positive stance of Virginia towards coal elimination shows that the state is looking for solutions, however the expectation of the government to pay damages for citizens suffering from cancer or other related health issues is fallacy.

There are social funding and welfare programs already in place that cover the individual suffering from disabilities and illnesses caused by any number of issues, and the idea that the state should pay the penalties for coal-companies is impractical. If the government were required to pay damages caused by private energy enterprises, this would result in scams and fraudulent activities. The investigation and eligibility of claims is a highly intricate process, and there is not a pragmatic solution.

Lawmakers must hold the energy companies responsible for environmental and safety violations. Applying fines on the giant energy corporations is impactful when there are cases of damages to public health.

The state of Virginia is taking sweeping action against the energy sector to improve health and the environment. While years of neglect and damage cannot be undone in a short time, Virginia is taking steps in the right direction. Penalty compensation for health issues should lie where the problem exists, with the coal companies.