Smaller coal operators could be hurt by new regulations.

This article offers perspectives about the possible effect of several U.S. mine-safety regulations on small- and mid-sized coal operators in the country. Of the 26 coal-mining states in the U.S., there are 10 to 12 underground-producing states along with the majority of underground coal mining considered less than significant. The regulations that may possibly affect the mining industry include the MINER Act and the Miner Health Enforcement Act of 2007. One mining operator believe that the problem lies on those people who are writing the laws and involved with the process.