Patriot Coal Says UMWA Release Is Factually Inaccurate

Patriot Coal Corporation

responded today to the press release issued by the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) concerning negotiations between Patriot and the UMWA.  Contrary to the UMWA's assertion, Patriot has not "walked out" of negotiations with the UMWA.  In fact, the Company only learned that next week's planned negotiating meetings were cancelled from the UMWA's press release.  Patriot continues to be ready to reach a consensual agreement. "The press release issued by the UMWA is inaccurate and distorted," stated Patriot President and Chief Executive Officer Ben Hatfield.  "Patriot has been working diligently with the UMWA in efforts to address their concerns about the contractual changes found to be necessary, fair and equitable by the Bankruptcy Court.  If our goal was to force acceptance of the court-approved contract as is, no further discussions would have been necessary, as that option has been available to us since May 29.  Instead, we have offered up millions of dollars in additional contract enhancements, including wage increases, healthcare improvements, life insurance, and paid personal time off.  The two-day recess in negotiations that the Company requested for the current week was needed for financial analysis of