Sebelius says any coal bill arriving on her desk is ‘DOA’

Governor says reasons she cited last year are even more valid now

? Gov. Kathleen Sebelius says an energy bill before the House is dead on arrival if it reaches her desk.

Sebelius told reporters Wednesday: “It’s DOA with me — absolutely.”

The bill would allow two coal-fired power plants in southwest Kansas and restrict the power of the secretary of health and environment. But it ties those provisions to others designed to promote renewable energy.

The House plans to debate it Thursday.

Sebelius said the green provisions are too weak. And, she said, allowing two coal plants would be a step backward when the federal government is moving toward policies to promote green energy.

But House Speaker Mike O’Neal, a Hutchinson Republican, said it’s frustrating that she’s standing in the way of good energy policy.