Ex-EPA chief Pruitt’s Indiana lobbying bid has likely failed

INDIANAPOLIS – Former Environmental Protection Agency chief Scott Pruitt has likely failed in his efforts to block the proposed closure of several coal-fired power plants in Indiana.

Pruitt registered as an energy lobbyist in Indiana last week for the parent company of Terre Haute-based mining company Sunrise Coal. Hallador Energy Co. of Denver says Pruitt is asking state officials to stop two utilities from shuttering the plants since the Trump administration is reviewing Obama administration pollution rules.

But Indiana House Speaker Brian Bosma said Tuesday he believes it’s too late to revive the plant-closing ban as this year’s legislative session could conclude Wednesday. The House defeated the proposal two weeks ago.

Hallador officials didn’t immediately reply to messages seeking comment.

Pruitt resigned from EPA last year amid a wave of ethics scandals .