February 22, 2012

Manchin Statement on New Charges in Upper Big Branch Mine Disaster

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today made the following statement about the new charges filed in the UBB investigation. 

“The tragedy that took the lives of 29 hardworking miners in April 2010 is still fresh in our hearts and minds. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the families and loved ones of those who were lost,” Senator Manchin said. “As I have said all along, each life is priceless, and every worker should be able to go to his or her job and return home safely. Anyone who puts production and profits before safety should be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. I applaud the efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s office to get to bottom of the wrongdoing in this case. I will continue to monitor developments with respect to the charges filed today, as well as the results of the investigation by the state Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training investigation.” 

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