INDIANAPOLIS (AP): Gov. Mike Pence says he expects state utility regulators will still review plans for a $2.8 billion coal-gasification plant in southwestern Indiana.

That project proposed for the Ohio River town of Rockport got a boost this week when the state supreme court approved a contract requiring the state to buy its synthetic natural gas for 30 years.

Pence said Wednesday his office was reviewing the court's decision but that he anticipated the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission would again take up the proposal.

Mark Lubbers of Indiana Gasification says the project still needs Pence's support to advance after legislators this year voted to seek additional reviews.

Opponents maintain the project would cost Indiana utility customers as much as $1.1 billion in higher gas rates.