WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Barrasso , R-Wyo., today announced that he has landed coveted seats on key Senate Committees that have a direct impact on the economy, safety, and lives of Wyoming people.

Barrasso said he was proud to be joining the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Environment and Public Works and Indian Affairs committees.

These committees, Barrasso said, position Wyoming well for the future in order to continue strong leadership in the areas that are most important to the state.

“In Wyoming we have a long and distinguished history of U.S. Senators who have served as leaders on the Energy Committee and truly made tremendous contributions to our state and to our country,” Barrasso said. “I am very proud to follow this tradition because it is critical to Wyoming and to our economy. I am looking forward to the issues that are in front of us — from energy development and national security to national parks.”

Wyoming has had a Senator serve on the Senate Energy Committee continuously since 1899.

“ Wyoming ’s tremendous natural resources must remain a significant part of our nation’s energy outlook. I want to ensure that Wyoming ’s energy interests are a focal point in any debate about our nation’s energy needs,” Barrasso said.

“Our state offers a wide array of energy solutions – traditional and alternative sources should all be part of powering our nation. Wyoming ’s strong energy economy continues to create jobs and improve our local economies across the state.”

U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., announced today that Barrasso’s assignments were ratified by the Republican Conference.

“Sen. Barrasso is a welcome addition to the Energy, Environment and Public Works, and Indian Affairs Committees,” McConnell said. “I know that John will represent Wyoming well, and that these assignments will be an asset to his service for the people of his state.”

Barrasso was pleased with his committee assignments.

“ Wyoming has many concerns about the Endangered Species Act, the environment, and funding for our highways. I’m looking forward to working on these important topics,” Barrasso said.

“As part of the Indian Affairs Committee, I want to ensure that we’re addressing health care needs, improving economic development interests, and making necessary improvements to Indian education.”

Environment and Public Works has jurisdiction over highway funding, endangered species, and climate change, as well as air and water concerns.

The Indian Affairs Committee has jurisdiction to address the unique problems of American Indian, Native Hawaiian, and Alaska Native peoples.

The Energy and Natural Resources Committee has jurisdiction over national energy policy, including international energy affairs, emergency preparedness, and nuclear waste policy.

Barrasso said that along with Senator Mike Enzi, they will have the bases covered for Wyoming .

Subcommittee assignments have not been determined.