Federal Cuts in Enforcement Staff and Suspension of Black Lung Disease Prevention Rules Impact Coal Miners' Safety

In April 2025, the Biden administration's efforts to strengthen protections for coal miners against black lung disease faced significant setbacks. The Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) announced a temporary suspension of a new silica dust regulation designed to reduce miners’ exposure to harmful silica particles. The rule, which aimed to cut permissible silica levels in half and enforce stricter compliance standards, was initially scheduled to take effect in April but has been on hold since then, with enforcement paused until at least mid-August due to legal challenges and administrative restructuring.

The delay follows a series of federal agency reductions, including the closure of nearly 900 NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) employees involved in miners' health surveillance programs. These layoffs have effectively halted free health screenings for miners, impeding early detection of black lung disease, which has seen a concerning resurgence over recent years. Data indicates that approximately 20% of miners in central Appalachia exhibit signs of black lung, with more aggressive forms like progressive massive fibrosis increasing tenfold among long-term miners.

The crackdown on enforcement efforts extends beyond silica regulations. The Department of Government Efficiency, established under a Trump executive order, announced the shutdown of multiple MSHA field offices, reducing oversight opportunities. Critics argue these reductions compromise coal miners' health protections and increase occupational hazards.

Legal actions have been swift. A class-action lawsuit was filed by attorney Sam Petsonk on behalf of miners like Harry Wiley, seeking to reverse the firing of NIOSH surveillance staff. A U.S. District Court issued a preliminary injunction, temporarily reinstating the workers and suspending the enforcement pause. The case highlights ongoing concerns about the administration’s commitment to miner safety amidst administrative restructuring.

Advocates and industry experts warn that the staffing cuts and regulatory delays may lead to increased workplace injuries and health issues. Wes Addington of the Appalachian Citizens' Law Center emphasizes that diligent enforcement and strong regulations are vital to prevent deadly lung diseases and protect miners' lives.

Health experts and community advocates continue to call for the reinstatement and enforcement of protective regulations to prevent unnecessary black lung fatalities and ensure safer working conditions. The situation raises questions about the federal government’s prioritization of occupational health amid ongoing administrative changes, with many concerned about the long-term impacts on coal miners’ health and safety.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-feds-staff-halt-meant-curb.html