The United Mine Workers of America opposes a workers compensation bill in the West Virginia Legislature.
House Bill 3270 would amend the state’s deliberate intent law to cap economic damages at $250,000.
That would be bad for mine workers, UMWA President Cecil Roberts said in a statement Tuesday.
Under the current law, injured workers can sue their bosses and recover damages if the bosses knowingly placed them in harm’s way.
According to Roberts, workplace management would face no consequences under HB 3270.
Additionally, Roberts said, the lower limit on damages would cause families to struggle.
The bill is before the House Judiciary Committee. A similar bill is before the Senate Judiciary Committee.
The House of Delegates hosted a public hearing on the issue on Feb. 20, with the speakers split evenly for and against the change.