WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today issued the following statement regarding the fifth anniversary of the Upper Big Branch Mine explosion on April 5:

“Five years ago, 29 coal miners perished in the terrible tragedy at the Upper Big Branch Mine. Our hearts still ache for the families of the hard-working miners whose lives were lost far too soon. Coal mining is a proud West Virginia tradition, but it is not without risks. We must continue working together to protect the courageous West Virginia coal miners who help power America.”

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