Kentucky Governor Promoting New Drug Law for Miners

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Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear is promoting a newly passed law that permanently revokes the credentials of miners who fail drug tests.

Beshear was in Pikeville on Tuesday where he said the law sends a clear message that drug and alcohol abuse won’t be tolerated in Kentucky mines.

The law, passed by the General Assembly earlier this year, bars miners from working when they’ve tested positive for using drugs or alcohol for a third time.

Beshear said the law will help miners get home safely to their families at the end of their shifts while also requiring those with addictions to seek treatment.

First time offenders have the option to seek treatment, after which they can have their mining certifications reinstated.