WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) has strongly criticized recent Trump administration policies that could compromise the safety and well-being of Pennsylvania miners. Citing proposed closures of Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) field offices and significant layoffs at a National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) facility, Fetterman voiced concerns about endangering workers in one of the nation’s most hazardous industries.
The administration’s plan to close 35 MSHA offices, including four in Pennsylvania, would require inspectors to travel farther, possibly reducing the thoroughness of mandatory mine safety checks. “At a time when law enforcement is working in unity with the community to bring human trafficking out of the shadows, access to these tips could lead to more charges against traffickers – and more help for victims and survivors, who rarely escape on their own,” Fetterman asserted in a letter, co-signed by Senators Mark Warner (D-VA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT).
Additionally, nearly 300 employees at a Pittsburgh NIOSH facility, responsible for respirator research and testing, were reportedly laid off, prompting further outcry. The affected workforce was integral to initiatives like the Enhanced Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program, which provides free medical screenings for miners to detect black lung and other conditions. Fetterman, joined by colleagues, called on Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to reverse the decision and ensure continuity of care for miners.
“Coal miners deserve to go to work every day and come back healthy,” Fetterman stated, alongside Senators Warner and Kaine. He warned that delays in enforcing rules protecting workers from silica dust risk exacerbating black lung disease among young miners.
Fetterman pledged to continue advocating for Pennsylvania miners, urging the administration to consider the hazardous conditions faced by these workers. To date, he has not received responses from Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer or Secretary Kennedy.
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