Murray Energy says it might lay off 82% of workers; blames Obama's regulations, natural gas

UPDATE, July 8: The company said in a press release that "no layoffs are contemplated or expected at this time." 

Murray Energy Corp., the largest independent coal producer in the U.S., said it might have to lay off up to 82 percent of its workforce in September due partly to President Obama's environmental regulations, Timothy Cama reports for The Hill. The company's owner, Bob Murray, who is holding a fundraiser for Donald Trump this week, "said the potential layoffs would affect 4,400 employees in six states." Friday's announcement "came three days after miners in the United Mine Workers of America rejected the latest proposal for a new contract from Murray Energy and other unionized coal companies." (Murray Energy graphic: company operations)

Murray Energy said in a statement: “These workforce reductions are due to the ongoing destruction of the United States coal industry by President Barack Obama, and his supporters, and the increased utilization of natural gas to generate electricity. Murray Energy hopes and expects to continue operating its mines, and will retain as many employees as practicable to ensure continued operation and to fulfill its obligations to its customers.” (Read more)