Henrichsen Attacks Lummis on Loss of AML Funds

RIVERTON, Wyo. (AP) — Democratic challenger Chris Henrichsen is attacking incumbent Republican Rep. Cynthia Lummis over Wyoming's loss of federal Abandoned Mine Lands money.

Speaking Thursday night at a debate in Riverton, Henrichsen said Lummis failed in her duty to the state when she failed to stop recent congressional action to strip away more than $700 million over the next ten years.

The Associated Press reports that coal-producing states such as Wyoming have received the AML funds to pay for mine reclamation. Wyoming also has used a portion of the money to pay for buildings, infrastructure and other projects.

Lummis says she tried to protect the AML funds, and she blames other members of Congress for "stealing" money that is rightfully Wyoming's.