U.S. Bill to Crack Down on Unsafe Mining

"Miners will have right to refuse to work in unsafe conditions. . ."

"U.S. Democratic lawmakers have proposed legislation that could see mines with poor safety records swiftly shut down in a bid to prevent a repeat of a mining accident in West Virginia earlier this year.

The proposed bill is set to increase penalties for serious violations, grant mine regulators the power to subpoena documents and testimony, and offer greater protection to miners who complain about safety problems.

Under the proposal, miners will have the right to refuse to work in unsafe conditions and won't lose pay if their mine is closed for safety reasons.

Leaders of the House and Senate committees said the bill is needed to fix a flawed system that came to light after the accident at the Upper Big Branch mine that killed 29 miners.

The House Education and Labor Committee chair Rep. George Miller said mine operators who callously and repeatedly put their workers in danger must be held accountable, reports Associated Press.

The current system allows mining companies to file lengthy legal appeals that delay the finding of a pattern of violation.

The proposed mine safety bill is set to be introduced in the House this week."

Announcing Streetwise Live! Events
Source: Streetwise Reports (07/13/2020)

Streetwise Reports is offering 100 investors—at no charge—the opportunity to meet via Zoom with executives of precious metals companies as they discuss recent developments at their companies and upcoming catalysts.

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Mexico: Gold's Next Powerhouse Player
Source: Marc Davis, BNW News (11/03/2009)

As the world's key gold producing nations struggle mostly in vain to replenish dwindling below-ground supplies, Mexico is bucking the trend in a big way.

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Source: Brent Cook, Exploration Insights (04/14/2009)

Given the declining global gold production, mining companies’ demand for reserve replacement and the acute dearth of new gold discoveries, there is no doubt that real economic discoveries will be exceptionally valuable. . .the opportunity for stellar profits is the best it has probably ever been. Identifying the few successes, however, will require vigilant and constant technical assessment of geology and drill results, always with an eye to mine economics.

Congo Completes Mining Review, Says Majors Quit Talks
Source: Reuters (12/20/2008)

"Review process is extended an additional 45 days to allow six companies to return to the negotiating table for direct talks with government ministers."