Newsletter · October 2025
Coalfield towns send strong message to 26 U.S. reps
On Oct 6, ACLC’s policy team delivered 84 local resolutions to 26 congressional offices across five coalfield states. The package covers nearly 4 million residents and 10,296 families on benefits. Throughout the year, ACLC staff have been meeting with city and county officials, sharing model language, and tracking votes, with support from Appalachian Voices and the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA).
When the federal Black Lung program began in 1969, the monthly benefit was $144.50, equal to $1,269 in today’s dollars. The current benefit is $786, nearly 40% less in real value.
The resolutions call on lawmakers to:
- Update monthly benefit levels so they keep pace with living costs.
- Protect miners’ health coverage and access to care.
- Pass legislation now so miners and surviving spouses can make ends meet.
See state-by-state details + local resolutions →
Resolution spotlight: Hazard, Kentucky
- $2,605,607 in federal black lung benefits reached Hazard residents in FY2024.
- Household reality: a basic family budget in Hazard is about 4x the monthly benefit.
- Bottom line: Congress must raise benefits to match real costs.
Adopted Aug 18, 2025. Signed by Mayor Donald “Happy” Mobelini.
Local resolutions in the news
Appalachian News-Express—Op-ED by Bill Hatfield of Black Lung Association
The Citizens’ Voice—Local governments in PA coal counties step up
WTOV9—Miners in Belmont County, Ohio seek increase in benefits
In case you missed it
Coal miners and activists rally in D.C. to protect silica dust rule
FEMA reform bill moves forward in congressional committee
Video: Flood resilience testimony in Frankfort by ACLC policy director Rebecca Shelton →
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