Mining safety laws reevaluated.

Several states dusted off decades-old mining safety laws and took action to modernize them following the Sago Mine explosion in West Virginia that killed 12 miners--the deadliest mining accident since 1968.

Actions include requiring self-rescue breathing devices, wireless communications and tracking systems, mining emergency centers, more frequent annual mine inspections, and steeper fines for violations by mine operators.

West Virginia passed the first such bills on January 26, requiring that miners be equipped with communications and tracking devices. In addition, mine operators are required to provide extra air supplies, and an all-hours hotline will ensure...