From ReImagine Appalachia (https://reimagineappalachia.org/):
In December, Congress missed an opportunity to extend the Black Lung Excise Tax as its historic rate. That leaves coal miners who rely on the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund in the dark – they don’t know if benefits or insurance will be cut as the debt rises.
Our best bet for passing this important bill as part of budget reconciliation – but we need Senator Manchin’s support to make that happen.
That’s why ReImagine Appalachia is joining with the Black Lung Association who is launching a campaign asking Senator Manchin to give certainty to miners with black lung and to their families. We’re buying radio ads and hosting a press conference to say, “We’re Counting on You, Joe!”
Can you help? Let Congress know you support coal miners and their urgent message. Call (888) 780-LUNG (5864) to hear a script and be connected with your senator to protect benefits for coal miners.
Thousands of coal miners and their families rely on the trust fund to pay their health insurance and a small living stipend. The stipend for a miner is less than $700 a month, but the health insurance can make all the difference for the survival of families dealing with this awful disease.
As Congress considers a new budget reconciliation bill, it’s time to include a long-term extension of the excise tax on coal companies to protect black lung benefits.
It’s truly unacceptable that the black lung excise tax was cut. Coal miners risked their lives to power this country. They deserve our support to make sure the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund remains solvent into the future.
Take action today: Call (888) 780-LUNG (5864) to hear a script and be connected with your senator to protect benefits for coal miners.
P.S. Visit blacklungkills.org to watch our powerful new video and take action.
Leave a Reply