Black Lung Benefits Bill Introduced for Coal Miners in Pennsylvania and Kentucky
What happened
A bill, H. R. 9556, was introduced by Pennsylvania Democrat Rep. Summer Lee. The legislation seeks to provide monthly and medical benefits to coal miners disabled from black lung disease in Pennsylvania and Kentucky. The bill states that the benefit rate, established in 1969, is inadequate because it has not kept pace with inflation. Under the current system, miners receive nearly 40 percent less than the inflation-adjusted original amount.
From wuky.org
Why it matters
The bill directly addresses the economic support and health issues facing the coal industry in Pennsylvania and Kentucky. By proposing increased benefits, the legislation relates to the economic viability of the coal sector. This action comes amid reports that Appalachia is experiencing the highest number of black lung cases in 50 years.
From wuky.org
Who's involved
- Summer LeeProposed the bill (H. R. 9556) to improve conditions for coal miners.
- PennsylvaniaIs a state affected by the proposed regulatory action regarding black lung benefits.
- KentuckyIs a state whose coal industry issues are addressed by the proposed bill.
- Commonwealth of KentuckyIs a state government mentioned in the context of the industry's health issues.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- PennsylvaniaSpeculative
The regulatory action might change the operating costs or revenue of coal companies in the state.
- KentuckySpeculative
The bill might change the financial burden or operational costs for the coal industry in the state.
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The entities involved
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Pennsylvania
state of the United States of America
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Kentucky
state of the United States of America
Related events
- NIOSH staff noted rising black lung cases among miners in Kentucky, while Donald Trump promised to save coal jobs in the region.
- Coal mining operations in Pennsylvania are noted to have impacts on the global environment.
- Pennsylvania is facing an impending federal overhaul of hemp products.
- A coalition of states, including Kentucky, is co-leading efforts to challenge a federal air quality rule by seeking review from the Supreme Court.