"Federal Regulations Combat Resurgence of Deadly Black Lung Disease"
Federal officials have announced new rules to protect coal and other miners from toxic silica dust, setting stricter exposure limits and requiring monitoring of air quality in mines. The regulations, prompted by investigative reporting on the prevalence of black lung disease and overexposure to silica dust, aim to hold mining companies accountable and prevent thousands of cases of disease and deaths. While the new rules have been welcomed by some, concerns remain about the adequacy of monitoring and enforcement, as well as potential industry and congressional opposition.