Kentucky coal miners vital to energy production

Contact:  Mark York 502-564-3350

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 1, 2007) – Governor Ernie Fletcher declared today Miners Recognition Day.  The Kentucky General Assembly adopted House Resolution 101 on April 11, 2006, that proclaims May 1 as a day to recognize the dangers as well as the importance of coal mining in Kentucky.

“Mining is an important part of Kentucky’s economy and it is only appropriate we set aside this day to recognize the important and dangerous work of miners,” said Governor Fletcher. “Although progress has been made in improving mine safety, we will continue to work to ensure every miner returns home at the end of the shift.”

The work of coal miners generates over 90 percent of the electricity that makes the comfort and productivity of Kentucky life possible.  Coal miners keep Kentucky and the nation supplied with an energy resource that produces electricity for the lowest cost.  Coal is also the only domestic energy resource of which exports exceed imports. 

Coal mining is an important part of Kentucky’s economy, generating $231 million a year in severance tax revenues.  Seventy-three percent of the coal mined in Kentucky was exported to 23 other states and four foreign countries in fiscal year 2005.  More than 17,000 jobs are directly attributable to coal mining in Kentucky, and the labor of coal miners contributes more than $600 million to the state in tax revenues. 

Kentucky coal miners are a vital source of skilled labor with the expertise to produce energy supplies from the vast coal reserves within our state.  This resolution helps recognize Kentucky coal miners for their special contributions to the commonwealth and the nation.