Morgan Griffith

Congressman Morgan Griffith released the following statement today after learning Alpha Natural Resources, Inc. plans to curtail coal mining operations in its northern and southern Kentucky business units as continued market pressures and new regulations on coal-fired power plants make production from certain mines in those areas uneconomic:

“I’m sorry to hear that Alpha has to take this action.  Hardworking Americans, their families, and our communities need these jobs.  In just the first six months of this year, Alpha has reduced its workforce by over 650 employees.  Unfortunately, while I think it is unlikely, it is my hope that President Obama will see this news and adjust his policies immediately.  I will continue to fight relentlessly against President Obama and all those who wage war on the coal industry and American jobs.”