FINAL BILL REPORT

                  HB 1942

                          C 64 L 97

                     Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Repealing the coal mining code.

Sponsors:  Representatives B. Thomas, Thompson and Dyer.

House Committee on Natural Resources

House Committee on Energy & Utilities

Senate Committee on  Natural Resources & Parks

Background:  The state coal mining code was first enacted before the turn of the century; most substantive amendments to it were made during the early 1900s.  Many of the provisions deal with health and safety issues surrounding coal mining technology and conditions during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

In addition, the code primarily addresses the underground mining of coal.  No underground coal mines currently operate in Washington.  Separate statutes govern surface mining. 

The Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 was originally enacted as the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969 to provide interim mandatory health and safety standards.  Those standards have been superceded by extensive health and safety regulations promulgated by the Secretary of Labor.  The federal act and regulations preempt all state laws that fall short of the federal provisions, but do not preempt state laws that either do not conflict with the federal provisions, or that impose more stringent health and safety standards on mining.

Summary:  The coal mining code is repealed.

Votes on Final Passage:

House970

Senate390

Effective:July 27, 1997