Capito had been a firm opponent of this measure since day one, but I imagine a "no vote" was tougher for Mollohan and Rahall.

Pressure to vote yes was coming from the top ranks of their own party, including President Obama. But the gentlemen from the state's first and third districts stood strong and, I'm happy to say, put the people above the politics.

Sadly, this measure still managed to pass by a razor-thin margin and is now headed to the senate.

I would implore Senators Byrd and Rockefeller to vote against this bill and use any means necessary to kill a law that cripples American industry, burdens working families and sends more of our jobs to places that don't care one whit about the environment.

It's our duty to contact Byrd and Rockefeller and let them know that this plan is wrong for West Virginia and wrong for America.