United States Department of Labor, and United Mine Workers of America, Intervenor/plaintiff-Appellee v. Wolf Run Mining Company, Incorporated

**Wolf Run Mining Company vs. Department of Labor (2006)** This case involved a dispute over mine safety violations at Wolf Run Mining Company. The U.S. Department of Labor, supported by the United Mine Workers of America union, accused the mining company of failing to follow federal mine safety regulations designed to protect workers underground. The court ruled in favor of the Department of Labor and the union. The 4th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court's decision, confirming that Wolf Run Mining Company had indeed violated mine safety rules. The company was found to be non-compliant with regulations that are meant to keep miners safe while working in dangerous conditions. This decision matters for workers because it reinforces that mining companies must follow federal safety standards, regardless of cost or inconvenience. When employers cut corners on safety, government agencies and unions can successfully hold them accountable in court. The ruling sends a clear message that worker safety regulations have teeth and will be enforced. For miners specifically, this case demonstrates that both their union and federal regulators will fight to ensure their workplace meets safety requirements, potentially preventing injuries or deaths underground.