Chris Clements

The U.S.

Government Accountability Office found coal miners can wait for years while seeking benefits.

That's true for Alex Osif, who is Navajo, Hopi, and Pima, and a former coal miner who worked on the Navajo Nation.

He says the coal companies that are on the hook for paying miners benefits can slow the process down by not providing employment histories.

The report also found that even when they get benefits, many coal miners face obstacles accessing the medical coverage they're entitled to.

For NPR News, I'm Chris Clements in Flagstaff.

The U.S.

Government Accountability Office found coal miners can wait for years while seeking benefits.

That's true for Alex Osif, who is Navajo, Hopi, and Pima, and a former coal miner who worked on the Navajo Nation.

He says the coal companies that are on the hook for paying miners benefits can slow the process down by not providing employment histories.

The report also found that even when they get benefits, many coal miners face obstacles accessing the medical coverage they're entitled to.

For NPR News, I'm Chris Clements in Flagstaff.

Shelley Biesel works at an airport near Gillette, the biggest city around for over 100 miles.

She says the work their 12 TSA agents do helps keep the lights on in a hub that supports other aspects of rural life.

At least one agent had to get a second job to support his family, she says.

Plus, even if the shutdown ends later this week, TSA workers will still miss two more paychecks.

For NPR News, I'm Chris Clements in Laramie.

Shelly Beasle works at an airport near Gillette, the biggest city around for over 100 miles.

She says the work their 12 TSA agents do helps keep the lights on in a hub that supports other aspects of rural life.

At least one agent had to get a second job to support his family, she says.