President Obama Presses for Answers on Mine Safety

Focus on Safety, Enforcement Effectiveness

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The President has tasked Federal mine safety officials to report next week on their initial assessment of the cause of the nation’s worst coal mining disaster in more than a quarter century, and what actions could prevent further tragedies in this industry.

The President will meet next week with Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis and Mine Safety and Health Administrator Joe Main.  He expects them to report on their early assessment of the deadly explosion’s cause, the safety record at the Upper Branch mine, and the steps that the Federal government should take to improve safety enforcement and prevent future tragedies.  The Secretary and MSHA Administrator will address safety issues as well as enforcement and legal authorities in their briefing.