Public interest law and advocacy for a just and healthy Appalachia
Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center
We combine legal advocacy, policy work, and community partnerships to help citizens engage in and influence the systems that shape their lives.
We fight for
Miner Safety
and Health
Environmental
Justice
Water and
Energy Equity
Flood and
Climate Resilience
Our strategy
Legal
advocacy
Win benefits for miners with black lung, protect workers from discrimination, and hold coal companies accountable for safety.
Policy
advocacy
Push for laws that protect people, land, and future generations while ensuring coalfield voices are heard in decision-making.
Research + analysis
Turn community data into evidence-based solutions that reach policymakers, driving smarter laws and better protections.
Coalition building
Organize with grassroots advocates and frontline partners to strengthen movements for long-term justice and resilience.
Latest News
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FILLING THE GAPS: ASSESSING MSHA’S SILICA DUST SAMPLING
Since 2009, coal miners and their allies have pushed the federal government to implement a silica dust standard to prevent exposure to the silica dust implicated in the…
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Legislative session wrap-up on energy focused legislation
During the 2026 legislative session, there was more conversation and focus than usual on utility affordability, especially energy affordability. Unfortunately, little was actually accomplished to address this pressing…
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Silica Dust Rule Delayed Again
Across Appalachia, we see people deeply committed to the mountains and their communities. That commitment endures despite a long history of under-investment and marginalization. At the same time,…
We are grateful for the support of our institutional partners
