James (Jim) McHugh is MSHA’s new Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy, Mine Safety and Health Administration. He was appointed April 21, 2025.
A native of West Virginia, Mr. McHugh joins us with more than three decades of distinguished legal and public service experience.
Prior to this appointment, Mr. McHugh was an attorney specializing in mining law and civil litigation. Throughout his legal career, he has represented businesses, individuals, and labor unions in a wide range of civil, criminal, and administrative matters, including extensive work related to MSHA and OSHA.
Mr. McHugh holds a B. S. degree from Purdue University and a J.D. degree from West Virginia University College of Law, where he earned the order of Coif and served as Coal Issue editor of the West Virginia Law Review.
Mr. McHugh brings a proud record of public service. He is a former elected prosecuting attorney. He served in the United States Marine Corps (Infantry and Judge Advocate) and later in the United States Army National Guard (Military Police), retiring at the rank of Colonel. Jim’s leadership and dedication to the country are evident throughout his professional career.
