HARLAN, Ky. -- U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers applauds the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) for taking action in response to his request for assistance on behalf of all Blackjewel coal miners who were unexpectedly laid off without pay on July 1, 2019. 

In an official court filing today, the DOL's Office of the Solicitor has maintained that Blackjewel’s mined coal is a “hot good” under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The proposed order would therefore prohibit the sale and transport of the coal until the coal miners are paid, in accordance with the FLSA.

"I am eager for some peace of mind for our miners and their families, and it is reassuring that DOL attorneys agree that the coal they mined should not be sold until the coal miners are paid. I have remained in constant contact with DOL officials to ensure all resources are being expended for our laid off coal miners, including support for unemployment benefits and displaced worker grants," said Congressman Rogers. "I continue to stand in awe of the generosity of neighbors, nonprofit organizations and people from across the country who have donated goods and financial support to these families in need. Once again, the people of southeastern Kentucky are proving to be resilient through difficult times and I will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with them along the way."

To learn more about Congressman Rogers' efforts to protect coal, visit halrogers.house.gov.