Miners, supporters to rally again in St. Louis

ST. LOUIS — Retired coal miners and their supporters are planning another rally in downtown St. Louis in an ongoing dispute with Patriot Coal.

The rally was scheduled Monday morning in Kiener Plaza, with United Mine Workers of America President Cecil Roberts expected to take part.

St. Louis-based Patriot wants to make significant changes to health benefits for retired miners and reduce pay and benefits for current miners. The company says the moves are necessary for survival.

A U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge has given Patriot the go-ahead for its changes.