More than 1,500 coal miners have tested positive for drug use since Kentucky began screenings six years ago, creating additional risks in an already dangerous industry.
That information from the Office of Mine Safety and Licensing convinced the House Natural Resources and Environment Committee to approve legislation Thursday to eliminate loopholes in current law that could allow miners who abuse drugs to return to work in Kentucky.
The legislation would revoke the mine certifications for three years for first offenders, five years for second offenders and for life for third offenders. Current law allows miners to be retested after 10 days. Those who test negative can then return to work.