Reform Mine Safety Laws

This year began with a terrible workplace tragedy, the explosion at the Sago Mine in West Virginia that claimed the lives of 12 coal miners. More than 30 workers have died in the nation's coal mines already in 2006, making it crystal clear that we need strong protection for our miners.

As oil prices soar, pressure is on to produce more coal. As the mines kick into high gear, we have to protect the miners who are working for us. Let’s make sure there are no more Sagos. The Senate has passed mine safety reform legislation, and it's time for the House to act. Contact your U.S. representative today and ask him or her to support H.R. 5389, a bill that will bring real reform to our mine safety laws.

Sample Letter for Campaign

Subject: Support Mine Safety Reform (H.R. 5389)

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

So far this year, more than 30 coal miners have died on the job, 12 in the Sago Mine disaster alone. The Bush administration has failed to protect our miners, killing the regulations that keep our miners safe and putting industry executives in charge of the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

The Senate has already passed a mine safety bill. A bill moving through the House (H.R. 5389) would further strengthen mine safety laws.

It is time for the House to act. I urge you to co-sponsor and support H.R. 5389. This bill will have an immediate impact and save miners' lives.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
May 24, 2006


Background Information

This year began with a terrible workplace tragedy, the explosion at the Sago Mine in West Virginia that claimed the lives of 12 coal miners. More than 30 workers have died in the nation's coal mines already in 2006, making it crystal clear that we need strong protection for our miners.

As oil prices soar, pressure is on to produce more coal. As the mines kick into high gear, we have to protect the miners who are working for us. Let’s make sure there are no more Sagos. Contact your U.S. senators and representative today and ask them to support real reform to our mine safety laws.

It’s no coincidence that we’ve seen a rash of mining fatalities this year. The Bush administration has put our nation’s coal miners in danger by killing 17 Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) safety rules, including measures on rescue teams and emergency oxygen. These very rules might have helped the miners at Sago. The administration also weakened mine ventilation standards and allowed coal conveyer belt shafts to be used as a source of air, a dangerous practice prohibited by the Mine Act.

What’s more, President Bush has consistently put mine bosses and industry executives in charge of MSHA. His administration has failed to punish mining companies for safety violations, levying insignificant fines when companies put their workers in danger.

Our coal miners are dying at an alarming rate, and it has got to stop. Take action today and tell your senators and representative to pass protections for miners.

Two bills proposed in Congress (H.R. 4695/S. 2231 and S. 2308) would take immediate steps to protect the nation’s coal miners, including:

  • Requiring immediate notification of accidents and rapid emergency response.
  • Require new, stronger standards on mine rescue teams, communications, tracking devices and oxygen availability for mine emergencies.
  • Set mandatory minimum penalties for egregious and repeated violations.
  • Prohibit the use of conveyor belts to ventilate work areas.

Let’s make a difference for workers who face unsafe conditions every single day. Help pass these important reforms and help save miners’ lives.