Causescommons.wikimedia.org It’s been decades since toxic dust rules for mines have improved. Lawmakers are taking notice Black lung has surged in Appalachia in recent years. Research has tied the epidemic to silica dust, which can burrow deep into miners’ lungs.
Causescommons.wikimedia.org Black lung patients, advocates urge mine safety officials to update silica dust standards The federal Mine Safety Health Administration is expected to issue a new proposed standard. Advocates support any moves the agency makes towards a new standard, but some worry it won’t go far enough.
Causes www.nytimes.com Robert Murray, coal baron with clout, dies at 80 The son of a coal miner, he built a sprawling company, fought government regulations and wielded considerable political influence as a Trump ally.
Politics ohiovalleyresource.org Bob Murray, who fought black lung regulations as a coal operator, has filed for black lung benefits As a coal company executive Robert Murray fought mine safety rules on black lung disease. Now he seeks black lung benefits for himself.
Solutions www.alleghenyfront.org Pennsylvania: Why a coalition of unions and environmental groups endorsed Biden The BlueGreen Alliance says Donald Trump is an "existential threat" while Joe Biden puts "good paying jobs" at the center of his climate plan.
Causes Coal company Rhino Resource Partners files for bankruptcy Kentucky-based coal company Rhino Resource Partners LP filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Wednesday.
Causes stateimpact.npr.org Mine workers’ union wants more protections against COVID-19 The United Mineworkers of America is asking the federal government to issue emergency rules to prevent the spread of COVID-19 inside coal mines.
A controversial facility that would process plastic waste to be burned in steel mills has been cancelled
Pennsylvania health advocates say Trump’s first 100 days in office have caused “100 harms” to local communities
