Capito Statement On Two Year Anniversary of Upper Big Branch Disaster

Statement

Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., co-founder of the Congressional Coal Caucus, released the following statement on the two year anniversary of the Upper Big Branch Mine Explosion:

"The mining industry is an indispensible part of our state both economically and culturally. For generations, our friends and family have worked in the mines, and we take great pride in knowing that their hard work helps power America. When tragedy strikes and miners are killed, it truly affects us all. My thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the 29 miners killed in the explosion two years ago.

"Mining is a tough and often dangerous profession; however there is no reason for any miner to be unnecessarily put in excessively dangerous situations. Analysis and investigations over the past two years have revealed the devastating reality that the UBB explosion could have been prevented. I will continue to work with my colleagues to ensure laws and rules allow for the safest work environment possible. Mine safety is not apartisan issue, and I trust that Members on both sides of the aisle are as committed as I am to seeing mine safety legislation moved soon."

BACKGROUND

Last December, Capito introduced H.R 3697, the "Mine Safety Accountability and Improved Protection Act." Capito's legislation seeks to streamline the conference and appeals process, improve implementation of mine safety and health regulation, hold violators accountable by increasing penalties--both financial and criminal--for violations of the law, all with the end goal of creating a safer working environment for our miners.

Capito urges her colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join together to honor America's fallen miners to pass this commonsense, effective bill in order to protect our miners from preventable disasters in the future.

Source