Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet
Governor Fletcher declares May 1 Miner Recognition Day

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 1, 2006) – Governor Ernie Fletcher declared today Miners Recognition Day.  The Kentucky General Assembly adopted House Resolution 101 on April 11, 2006, that proclaims May 1 as a day to recognize the dangers as well as the importance of coal mining in Kentucky.

“Mining is an important part of Kentucky’s economy, and it is only appropriate we set aside this day to recognize the important and dangerous work of miners,” said Governor Fletcher. “Although progress has been made in improving mine safety, we will continue to work to insure every miner returns home at the end of their shift.”

The work of coal miners generates over 50 percent of the electricity that makes the comfort and productivity of American life possible.  Coal miners keep Kentucky and the nation supplied with an energy resource that produces electricity for the lowest cost.  Coal is also the only domestic energy resource of which exports exceed imports. 

Coal mining is an important part of Kentucky’s economy, generating $153 million a year in severance tax revenues.  In 2004, 73 percent of the coal mined in Kentucky was exported to other states and countries.  Over 15,000 jobs are directly attributed to coal mining in Kentucky and the labor of coal miners contributes more than $430 million to the state in sales tax revenues. 

Kentucky coal miners are a vital source of skilled labor with the expertise to produce energy supplies from the vast coal reserves within our state.  This resolution helps recognize Kentucky coal miners for their special contributions to the Commonwealth and the nation.