WASHINGTON (May 24, 2006) Today, Congressman Ben Chandler called on his House colleagues to pass comprehensive mining legislation. 

Hours earlier, the Senate passed mine safety legislation by a voice vote.  Congressman Chandler is the only member of the Kentucky delegation to be a co-sponsor H.R. 5389, Protecting America’s Miners Act. 

“I am pleased to be an original co- sponsor of H.R. 5389, “said Rep. Ben Chandler (D-KY).  “This comprehensive mining bill will not only crack down on negligent mine operators but save lives.”  

See the following for the text of Congressman Chandler’s remarks on the floor of the House of Representatives.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of Amon Brock, Jimmy D. Lee, George Petra, Paris Thomas Jr., Roy Middleton, and Steve Bryant.

These are the names of Kentucky miners who have died in the last week.

Just this morning the other body acted on behalf of our miners, and it’s critical that the House take immediate action and pass HR 5389- a comprehensive mining bill that will not only crack down on negligent mine operators but save lives!

This body shouldn’t risk another miner’s life by failing to act.

I call on my colleagues to reach across party lines for the sake of our miners-who are simply trying to go to work and provide for their families.

Thank you.

###