More coal miners can keep their jobs. That's what operators say after Governor Steve Beshear announced 34 new state employees are on the way to help the struggling coal industry.

The governor visited Martin, Pike, and Harlan Counties Tuesday and says the state will hire more permit reviewers and mine rescue team members.

Local coal operators say this will make a huge difference and help keep mines in business and miners at work.

The governor says this will also boost coal miner safety while helping eastern Kentucky's economy at the same time.

Dozens of small mine operators told Governor Steve Beshear the year long wait for permits and high costs to meet new mine rescue team safety requirements is hurting production.

“They were going to go out of business if we did not do something. During this recession, we need as many people working as possible, plus we need to produce coal for energy for this country,” Governor Beshear said.

The Governor announced the state will hire 34 more employees;19 new permit reviewers and 15 new mine inspectors who will also serve on the state mine rescue teams to help the more than 100 small mines in Kentucky.

“These are people we can depend on and it’s really a help for the small mines,” Joe Jacobs said.

The governor says adding permit reviewers will get permits to mines faster.

Officials say the new mine rescue workers will increase safety and cut costs for smaller mines.

To pay for the new employees during budget cuts, the Martin and Floyd County Fiscal Courts authorized the state to use some of their coal severance funds to pay for the 15 mine inspectors. Increased permit fees and federal dollars will pay for the 19 new permit reviewers.

“It's really going to help get people back to work and help people keep a roof over their heads and food on the table for their families,” Governor Beshear said.

Which coal miners say is relief during tough economic times.
State officials hope to hire the new inspectors and permit reviewers as soon as possible.

Governor Beshear also signed a proclamation declaring November Coal Appreciation Month.