Attend an event to protect miners from black lung disease

In-person hearings | Online webinars

Black lung disease — a deadly, incurable disease caused by coal mining — is on the rise in Appalachia.

The main reason for this resurgence is increased levels of silica in coal dust. It’s been known for decades that silica dust is especially harmful for miners, but current regulations allow coal miners to be exposed to it at rates higher than limits set for other occupations. In late June, the Mine Safety and Health Administration finally released a draft rule that would update the silica exposure limits for miners. There are a few ways you can get involved!

Attend a public comment hearing

The Mine Safety and Health Administration is hosting three hybrid (virtual and in-person) hearings about the rule in Denver, Colorado, Beckley, West Virginia and Arlington, Virginia. We would like to fill the room in Beckley and Arlington with people supporting miners with black lung disease. Let us know you plan to attend, and indicate on the form if you would like help with writing your public comment.

Let us know you plan to attend

Attend a webinar to learn more

Appalachian Voices and other advocates will host two webinars to discuss the rise of black lung disease in the region and MSHA’s proposed silica rule.