Written by AV's Intern Team
![](https://appvoices.org/wp-content/uploads/bb-plugin/cache/avs-intern-team_avatar-123x123-circle-7633121da4ad2119caaa99f032479599-8pb601xusyda.jpg)
AV's Intern Team
Every year, Appalachian Voices is fortunate to assemble a phenomenal team of rockstar interns from numerous Appalachian and East Coast universities. Enjoy these posts from our interns.
Virginia and North Carolina Vow Climate Action As U.S. Withdraws from Paris Agreement
The governors of North Carolina and Virginia signed a letter agreeing to meet necessary leadership for commitment to Paris Agreement, and Virginia moves forward with plans to limit carbon dioxide emissions.
RECLAIM Act Passes House Committee
A bill to accelerate the reclamation of abandoned coal mines and revitalize local economies moved forward and could be voted on this fall.
Opposition to Potential Nuclear Reactors in Tennessee
The Tennessee Valley Authority is seeking an early permit for modular nuclear reactors in Roane County, Tenn.
Repeal of EPA Methane Rule Denied in Court
The Environmental Protection Agency’s efforts to suspend a rule that restricts methane leaks related to natural gas infrastructure were denied by an appeals court.
NC Passes Controversial Solar and Wind Law
A new North Carolina law faces sharp criticism from some advocates of renewable energy, but others are touting it as a win for the solar industry. The law also implements a moratorium on wind development, but an executive directive from the governor placed limits on that moratorium.
Third Coal Ash Recycling Site Announced in NC
Duke Energy plans to follow state law and construct a third coal ash recycling plant in Moncure, N.C.
EPA Sampling for PCB Contamination
The EPA is sampling water and soil in Minden, W.Va., where it is suspected that harmful PCB chemicals may be causing high cancer rates in the area.
U.S. Department of Justice Withdraws Funding Request for Kentucky Prison
The Dept. of Justice withdrew a funding request for a proposed prison on former mountaintop removal site in Eastern Kentucky.
New Plan Being Crafted for Two North Carolina National Forests
The U.S. Forest Service is in the process of drafting and receiving public feedback on new plans for preserving protected designations of two national forests in North Carolina.
Studies Show Harmful Air Pollution From Wildfires
Study shows particulates linger after forest fires and could contribute to climate change.