Federal mine regulators are proposing changes to silica dust protections, raising concerns among advocates fighting the resurgence of black lung disease in Appalachia. The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) announced Tuesday that its proposal would eliminate mandatory quarterly dust testing, allowing mining companies greater discretion over when testing is necessary. The proposal would also reduce certain medical examination requirements and limit penalties for excessive silica exposure to violations identified through federal inspections. The existing legal exposure limit of 50 micrograms per cubic meter would remain unchanged. The Department of Labor describes the changes as practical improvements, while black lung advocates warn they could weaken protections for miners. MSHA estimates the changes would save mining operators approximately $28.7 million annually. The changes are not yet final. Public comments will be accepted through January 11, 2027. Source: Kentucky Lantern #AppalachiaInsider #CoalMiners #BlackLung #MineSafety #EasternKentucky #Appalachia