By Associated Press
WASHINGTON – An administrative law judge has ordered two major coal producers, Massey Energy Co. and Peabody Energy Corp., to turn over information about coal mine accidents, injuries, and work-related illnesses.
The federal Mine Safety and Health Administration said Massey and Peabody refused to turn over information it needed to determine if eight mines in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia should be subject to greater enforcement because of persistent violations.
Massey spokesman Jeff Gillenwater said that company is considering an appeal.
In Kentucky, the mines in question are Massey's Love Branch South and Process Energy's No. 1 mine, both in Pike County.