Dive into the lasting impact of black lung disease in the post-coal era of central Appalachia. This insightful article examines the historical and current challenges posed by this occupational hazard, highlighting its continued prevalence despite the decline of the coal industry. Stay informed with in-depth analysis and stories from Kingsport Times-News.
Explore the latest developments in legislation aimed at supporting coal miners with black lung, including the introduction of the Relief for Survivors of Miners Act and the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act, and the challenges facing new silica dust standards.
“We do need Republicans to try to help out,” National Black Lung Association President Gary Hairston, 69, of Beckley, said during a virtual news conference Wednesday to push bills aimed at easing access to federal black lung benefits for miners and their survivors. “It seems like when we try to get them to help, they do it when they’re talking on TV or something. But when it comes really down to it, they don’t.”
Advocates for coal miners affected by black lung disease met with lawmakers on December 13, asking them to pass laws to help coal miners. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztAAg83oSVo A big complaint advocates have is an amendment to legislation currently in the House of Representatives that will strip funding from a proposed rule that limits coal miners' exposure to
On Dec. 6, 1962, workers headed to the mine Robena No. 3 traveled there in bad, snowy weather. “Little did they know their peril didn’t lie in their journey there but what would take place that fateful day,” said Ed Yankovich Jr., a member of United Mine Workers of American (UMWA) Local Union #1980. An […]