A West Virginia coal company owned by the family of Gov. Jim Justice requested the dismissal of a lawsuit that claims it issued bounced paychecks to its mine workers.
Bluestone Industries Inc. and the governor's grown children, James and Jillean Justice, who are directors of the business, were accused of violating the West Virginia Wage Payment and Collection Act by failing to issue proper payments to their employees. The initial lawsuit was filed in early March and amended in April of this year.
Bluestone responded to the class action lawsuit on June 4 that it paid the wages in question and denied allegations pertaining to charged wire transfer fees, and all other subsequent accusations against the company.
"Plaintiff is barred from recovery under the doctrine of accord and satisfaction, the plaintiff having accepted payment in full for services rendered," the company said.
The company requested the court dismiss the claims set forth in the amended complaint, "with prejudice, and award defendants all costs and attorneys' fees and any other relief this court deems proper."
The defendants also demanded a jury trial on all issues so triable.
