Policy & Politics

The United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) Government Affairs Department is a pivotal force in the union’s advocacy efforts on the national stage, representing the interests of its members, their families, and the communities they serve. In addition to advocating for these important issues, the UMWA operates both in Washington, D.C., and in state capitols across the United States. Our goal is to represent the interests of UMWA members and their families by engaging with lawmakers and regulators at all levels of government. We work tirelessly to ensure that legislation and regulations are crafted in a way that benefits UMWA members and their communities.

We will continue to serve as a strong and influential voice in the realm of government policy, advocating for the security, safety, and dignity of those who have contributed to the coal industry and the nation as a whole.

We are here to help! Please reach out if you have any questions!

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    Latest News & Media View All ›

    Nov. 18, 2025

    New United Mine Workers of America president Brian Sanson discusses the industry

    Source: NPR Date: Nov. 15, 2025   NPR's Scott Simon speaks with Brian Sanson, the new president of the United…

    Aug. 27, 2025

    Bill Introduced - Protecting Striking Workers' Health Care

    UNDER THE BILL, EMPLOYERS WHO COMMIT THE NEW TYPE OF UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICE VIOLATION WOULD BE SUBJECT TO CIVIL MONETARY…

    Jun. 27, 2025

    UMWA Sends Urgent Letter to Congress Warning of Grave Dangers in Reconciliation Legislation

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 27, 2025   UMWA Sends Urgent Letter to Congress Warning of Grave Dangers in Reconciliation Legislation…

    May 3, 2025

    UMWA International President Cecil E. Roberts Condemns Cowardly Layoffs at NIOSH, Warns of Dire Consequences for Worker Safety

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MAY 3, 2025   UMWA International President Cecil E. Roberts Condemns Cowardly Layoffs at NIOSH, Warns of…

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    How Private Equity Firms Caused The UMWA Strike In Brookwood

    How Private Equity Firms Caused The UMWA Strike In Brookwood. Here’s an in-depth look at how ongoing business practices have impacted striking blue-collar workers for one west Alabama coal producer.

     

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    How Private Equity Firms Caused The UMWA Strike In Brookwood

    How Private Equity Firms Caused The UMWA Strike In Brookwood. Here’s an in-depth look at how ongoing business practices have impacted striking blue-collar workers for one west Alabama coal producer.

     

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    Scott, Adams Introduce Bill to Protect Future Benefits, Health Care for Miners with Black Lung Disease

    The Education and Labor Committee Chairman Bobby Scott (VA-03) and Subcommittee on Workforce Protections Chairwoman Alma Adams (NC-12), introduced the Black Lung Benefits Disability Trust Fund Solvency Act of 2022 (H.R. 6462). This legislation would extend the black lung excise tax rate, which expired at the end of last year, to fund future benefits and health care for miners suffering from black lung disease.

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    Scott, Adams Introduce Bill to Protect Future Benefits, Health Care for Miners with Black Lung Disease

    The Education and Labor Committee Chairman Bobby Scott (VA-03) and Subcommittee on Workforce Protections Chairwoman Alma Adams (NC-12), introduced the Black Lung Benefits Disability Trust Fund Solvency Act of 2022 (H.R. 6462). This legislation would extend the black lung excise tax rate, which expired at the end of last year, to fund future benefits and health care for miners suffering from black lung disease.

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    Become a UMWA Activist!

    Workers are struggling all across the world to fight for safe working conditions, fair wages, and decent benefits.  It is important for all union brothers and sisters to come together in solidarity. United We Stand! Fill out "Sign Up for E-mail Updates“, and you will be added to the UMWA Activist Team where you will receive the most up-to-date information about our Legislation, COMPAC, and other important UMWA information. We just need a little more information from you!

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    Become a UMWA Activist!

    Workers are struggling all across the world to fight for safe working conditions, fair wages, and decent benefits.  It is important for all union brothers and sisters to come together in solidarity. United We Stand! Fill out "Sign Up for E-mail Updates“, and you will be added to the UMWA Activist Team where you will receive the most up-to-date information about our Legislation, COMPAC, and other important UMWA information. We just need a little more information from you!

    More ›