After more than a century of extracting coal, miners in Appalachia now must cut through more and more sandstone rock in order to access the region’s dwindling coal reserves. This leads to elevated exposure to silica dust, which is 20 times more toxic than coal dust. The result is that deadly and debilitating black lung disease, once thought to be fading into the past, is now at epidemic levels in Central Appalachia, and it is afflicting miners as young as their thirties. 

In April 2024, the Mine Safety and Health Administration finalized a new rule that would cut the allowable levels of silica dust in mines by half. This protection was supposed to go into effect in April 2025 — a date that was repeatedly pushed back by courts and the Trump administration. On November 26, after months of inaction, the administration announced that it will continue to delay implementation of this crucial workplace protection while it “reconsiders” the rule itself – a shameful betrayal of American workers who are trying to make a living and support their families without suffering and dying as a result.

In recent years, grassroots action has repeatedly won results for miners with or at risk of black lung. Together, we have secured funding for medical care and disability benefits, and we defended federal black lung screening and prevention programs against sweeping budget cuts. It is time to take action again.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia has been actively monitoring this situation, and making a phone call is one of the best methods to let her know that the silica rule is important to you.

Please call Sen. Capito at (202) 224-6472 using the following script, or your own words.

“Hello, my name is ___. [If you are a West Virginia resident, say where you live.] I’m calling to urge Senator Capito to ensure the Mine Safety and Health Administration fully implements the 2024 silica rule.

Coal miners today are exposed to more silica dust, and as a result, black lung disease has risen to epidemic levels, even affecting miners in their thirties.

If implemented, the 2024 rule would finally give miners the same silica protections as workers in other industries. I’m deeply concerned that the administration is now reconsidering this life-saving rule.“

You can also help by writing an email to your senator or representative using the link below.