Twenty-three coal miners lost certifications after random drug tests

CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- In its first two months of implementation, 23 state coal miners have had their miners' certificates revoked after failing random drug testing, Office of Miners' Health Safety and Training Director Eugene White told the House Finance Committee Monday.

Part of the mine safety legislation enacted last March, the law requires the office to oversee random drug testing of miners, and to suspend miners' certificates for those who test positive for illicit drugs.