The House Workforce Protections Subcommittee held a hearing on the policies and priorities of the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) on January 22, 2026. Chairman Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA) opened the session by emphasizing the importance of worker safety in the mining industry.
"We all share the goal of keeping hardworking Americans safe. Today’s hearing examines the federal agency responsible for ensuring the safety of the men and women who help to power our nation," Mackenzie said.
He outlined MSHA's role in setting and enforcing safety standards for all types of mines across the country. The hearing featured testimony from Wayne Palmer, Assistant Secretary of Labor for Mine Safety and Health at the U.S. Department of Labor.
"Assistant Secretary Palmer was confirmed by the Senate on October 7, 2025. Prior to his appointment, he served as executive vice president of the Essential Minerals Association. He also served in the first Trump administration at MSHA, including as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary and, for a time, Acting Assistant Secretary. He also served as chief of staff to a Senator from my home state, Senator Rick Santorum," Mackenzie noted.
Mackenzie highlighted that this is "the first time in six and a half years that the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Mine Safety and Health has testified before this Committee." He praised both Palmer's experience and commitment to mine worker safety.
"Mining plays a critical role in supporting our economy and America’s energy independence. As a representative of the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, which has more than 700 active mines, I’ve seen firsthand how this industry supports jobs, families, and local economies. Under the Trump administration, there is opportunity for mining to grow and continue delivering for communities across the country," Mackenzie said.
He referenced recent executive orders issued by President Trump aimed at boosting domestic mineral and coal production while stressing that expanded production brings increased responsibility for worker protections: "As production expands, our responsibility is clear: we must ensure worker protections keep pace."
Mackenzie discussed challenges facing MSHA—including protecting workers from both common hazards like respirable silica exposure as well as risks unique to mining such as black lung disease—and expressed confidence in Palmer’s leadership abilities given his previous roles within MSHA.
"Going forward, MSHA must uphold strong safety standards while also supporting innovation as technologies and operational demands evolve. This can be achieved by pairing focused, effective enforcement with a strong compliance assistance program that promotes collaboration among employers, workers, and MSHA. By working together, we can develop practical, commonsense policies that prioritize safety and worker wellbeing," he stated.
Mackenzie concluded his remarks by welcoming Palmer's testimony: "Assistant Secretary Palmer, thank you for being here today, I look forward to your testimony."
