Coal has had a significant impact on Oklahoma's economy due to the state's large reserves of the fossil fuel. The coal industry has provided a substantial number of jobs in mining, transportation, and power generation, contributing to the state's overall employment rate. Additionally, coal production has brought in revenue for the state through taxes and royalties paid by coal companies. However, the decline in demand for coal in recent years, largely due to a shift towards cleaner energy sources, has had negative effects on Oklahoma's economy. This decline has resulted in job losses, decreased revenue for the state, and uncertainty for communities economically reliant on the coal industry. Overall, while coal has historically played a significant role in Oklahoma's economy, its influence has waned in recent years due to changing energy trends.
