Utah Mine Safety Commission Holds Initial Meeting

None by Eric Ray

(KCPW News) The Utah Mine Safety Commission, formed last week by Governor Jon Huntsman, held its first meeting today. The Governor has asked the commission to investigate whether the state needs to be more involved in mine inspection and certification.

Former Senator Jake Garn is one of eight people appointed to the commission. He says the commission doesn't want to interfere with the federal investigation into the collapse of the Crandall Canyon Mine. Instead, they want to put a local perspective on ways to prevent a similar disaster.

Mine owner Bob Murray is accusing Huntsman of meddling in the investigation and says the Governor is putting 700 jobs at risk if the commission continues its work. Garn believes the commission's work will be effective in helping save lives in the future.

Former U.S. Attorney Scott Matheson Jr. heads the commission, which also includes the mayors of Price and Huntington and Dennis O'Dell, Safety and Health Director of the United Mine Workers of America.

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