New and increased penalties and a mandatory drug testing rule are included in comprehensive mine reform legislation approved by the West Virginia legislature in the wake of the Upper Big Branch-South (UBB) Mine tragedy.

HB 4351 cleared the Senate 95-0 on Tuesday after passing unanimously in the House of Delegates on Feb 28. The measure has gone to Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin, who has expressed strong support. Tomblin and his staff helped craft the bill.