The Coal Mine Health and Safety Commission was established pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution No. 63 of 1976.

John C. Buchanan of Wise, a member of the Senate of Virginia and patron of Senate Joint Resolution No. 63 was elected Chairman. Orby L. Cantrell of Pound, a member of the House of Delegates, was elected Vice Chairman.

In addition to the Chairman and Vice Chairman, Daniel W. Bird, Jr. of Wytheville, a member of the Senate of Virginia, was appointed to the Commission. Also appointed to serve from the House of Delegates were Claude W. Anderson of Buckingham, Charles W. Gunn, Jr. of Lexington, James B. Murray of Earlysville, and William T. Wilson of Covington.

The following citizens were appointed pursuant to the resolution to serve on the Commission: W. Foster Mullins of Big Stone Gap; James McGlothlin of Grundy; and Lady Salyers of Coeburn. Bragdon R. Bowling, Jr. and Joanne S. Palmore of the Division of Legislative Services served as staff to the Commission.