Obama expected to tighten coal regulations

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - When Barack Obama becomes president, the coal industry isn't likely to go bankrupt. But coal operators and coal-fired utilities should brace for tougher regulation of mine safety, strip mining and especially greenhouse gas emissions. Coal industry watchdogs are looking for Obama to reverse Bush administration rule changes, beef up enforcement, and put the nation's first ever limits on carbon dioxide from power plants. "While coal mining is vitally important to the nation, it can kill and maim miners and foul the land, air and water when mine safety and environmental laws are violated," said Patrick McGinley.