Formally recognize Mine Rescue teams as first responders in West Virginia.

HB 5472 formally adds mine rescue personnel to West Virginia's definition of "emergency responders" under the Survivor Benefits Act. This means qualified mine rescue teams - those meeting specific training and certification requirements - will now be eligible for survivor benefits if they die while performing mine emergency response duties, such as responding to explosions, fires, or equipment maintenance. The bill amends existing law to include mine rescue personnel in the same category as firefighters, EMS, and law enforcement for benefit eligibility. It directly affects mine rescue team members who meet state training standards and perform authorized emergency response activities. The legislation extends existing survivor benefits without creating new costs or programs.