Following the release of data pointing to an abnormally high level of mesothelioma among past and present mine workers, officials from the University of Minnesota told a House panel on Wednesday that they plan four studies related to mesothelioma and other health issues for taconite industry employees and communities.

Lawmakers recognize the importance of the research, because previous efforts to look into the health effects of mining never were finished, and they are currently researching sources of funding.

The research will include studying the cause of death of an estimated 70,000 people who worked in the state’s taconite mines from the 1950s to the 1980s.

A total of $4.9 million is being sought.

Cancer research funds sought