Manchin Statement on Patriot Coal Layoffs in Boone County

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) released the following statement after Patriot Coal issued WARN Act notices to mining complexes in Boone County and announced potential layoffs:

“Patriot Coal’s announcement to lay off at least 100 miners is terribly disappointing for not only the hardworking miners in Boone County, but also for the entire southern region of our great state, where thousands of individuals will be directly and indirectly impacted. By mining the coal that keeps our lights on, heats our homes and powers our businesses, our miners are critical to the security and economic prosperity of this nation. Without their hard work and sacrifice, we absolutely cannot sustain our way of life, especially in coalmining regions. That is why we need to fight for every single miner and mining job.  For the miners and their families who will be affected by this most unfortunate decision, my staff and I stand ready to assist in any way possible. We will be working tirelessly to help these miners find jobs or retraining opportunities if the WARN Act notices come into effect.”

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