Gov. Steve Beshear says he's approving an increase in the number of coal mine inspectors and people who review permit applications in Kentucky's Energy and Environment Cabinet.

Beshear says adding 15 mine inspectors in the state's mine safety office will help efforts to finish required inspections. The governor says it will also improve the capabilities of Kentucky's mine rescue team.

Beshear also signed an emergency order that calls for assessments on new mine permit applications. Money generated by the assessments, combined with a federal match, is expected to raise an extra $800,000 to pay for 19 new Division of Mine Permits employees.