Massey Applauds State's Lawsuit Against EPA

JULIAN, W.Va., Oct. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- Massey Energy Company (NYSE: MEE) today released the following statement regarding the lawsuit filed by West Virginia against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The lawsuit challenges recently enacted EPA procedures that have greatly reduced the number of permits issued for coal mines in West Virginia, Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Kentucky.

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"Massey Energy applauds Governor Manchin's decision to combat the EPA's stance on mining permits, which threatens West Virginia jobs and jeopardizes the livelihoods of working families throughout Central Appalachia.  It is encouraging to see an elected official recognize the important role played by our coal miners, who work hard to meet the Nation's energy needs.  

"We agree with the Governor that it is a shame when you have to sue your own government.  However, we would like to point out that the same government the Governor is suing also controls the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). As this legal challenge continues, Massey Energy strongly encourages Governor Manchin and his administration to also scrutinize the actions of MSHA.  This federal agency frequently delays the issuance of mining plans that would provide jobs and, inexplicably, limits the utilization of scrubbers in West Virginia coal mines.

"Scrubbers safeguard the health of West Virginia miners and should be fully utilized.  Simply by employing scrubbers, continuous miner operators can remove up to 98% of the harmful coal dust from the air as miners work.

"Coal miners are one of West Virginia's greatest resources and all efforts to protect their health and livelihood are commendable."

Company Description

Massey Energy Company, headquartered in Richmond, Va., with operations in West Virginia, Kentucky and Virginia, is the largest coal producer in Central Appalachia and is included in the S&P 500 Index.

SOURCE Massey Energy Company

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