Charleston, WV (June 4, 2015) – The West Virginia Coal Forum – an organization representing both labor and management in the coal industry – applauds United Mine Workers of America President Cecil Roberts for his call to action in support of mining jobs yesterday in Morgantown, representatives announced. 

Chris Hamilton, co-chairman of the West Virginia Coal Forum, said, “We are so very appreciative of  President Roberts and his remarks yesterday in Morgantown.  We need everyone – miners, state residents, elected officials on all levels – to do what they can to stop the EPA’s efforts to put our miners and the jobs of those that depend on them out of work and reduce America’s energy independence.” 

Roberts urged UMWA members to work in their communities to oppose government incentives for new gas-fired power plants, encourage their local congressional representatives to fight new air pollution regulations and support lifting the ban on exports for natural gas. 

The West Virginia Coal Forum, in conjunction with multiple local, regional and national partners, will host a forum to highlight the challenges and opportunities facing the coal industry from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9, at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Charleston.  

“The issues President Roberts highlighted in his speech will be front and center on Tuesday, and we encourage the public to attend,” Hamilton said.