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Coal Mine Safety (CRS Report for Congress)

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Release Date June 23, 2006
Report Number RS22461
Report Type Report
Authors Edward Rappaport, Domestic Social Policy Division
Source Agency Congressional Research Service
Summary:

Dramatic mine accidents early in 2006 have led to passage of the first majoramendment to federal mine safety law since 1977. The Mine Improvement and NewEmergency Response Act (MINER, P.L. 109-236) requires each mine to have anemergency plan, increased supplies of oxygen, and improved rescue teams. Penaltiesfor violations have also been increased. Although the bill had wide support in Congress,some Members have characterized it as only a "first step," to be followed by additionalmeasures that would include a lower maximum limit on dust concentrations,underground refuges, communications and tracking devices, and greater emphasis onenforcement of standards.