Charleston, WV (October 21, 2015) – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, state legislative leaders, miners and mining industry supporters will hold a rally at the State Capitol at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday – Oct. 21 – to demonstrate disapproval with federal policies affecting West Virginia’s mining industry and the state residents it supports. 

Chris Hamilton, co-chairman of the West Virginia Coal Forum, said, “President Obama will be in Charleston Wednesday to discuss the impact of substance abuse on our population and that of the nation.  Unfortunately, his administration’s regulation of the mining industry has contributed to the loss of more than 8,000 direct mining jobs and tens of thousands of support positions in our state.  Lack of employment – and the hopelessness that creates in the individual – is certainly a contributing factor to substance abuse, and we hope he recognizes that during his visit.”

The event is open to the public and will be held near the “Miner Statue” on the west side of the Capitol, near the Culture Center. Media are encouraged to attend. 

For additional information, contact the West Virginia Coal Forum at (304) 957-2306.