Kentucky Says It Won’t Be Able to Complete Mine Inspections

The head of the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet is warning that the state will only be able to complete half of all mandatory coal mine inspections because of impending budget cuts.

Secretary Len Peters said this week that $456.1 million in cuts to the state budget will force Kentucky mine safety officials to cut back from six to three inspections at each of the state’s coal mines. Peters said halving the number of inspections will pose safety concerns for coal mines.

Peters briefed reporters on the effects revenue shortfalls are likely to have on his agency. Gov. Steve Beshear has ordered 4 percent budget cuts across state government to offset the latest shortfall.