ST. LOUIS (June 4, 2002) - Arch Coal today announced that Thomas Altmeyer has accepted the position of vice president - federal government affairs effective June 3. Altmeyer most recently served eight years with the National Mining Association as senior vice president - government affairs.

Altmeyer will oversee Arch Coal's federal legislative and regulatory activities, including serving as the Company's principal contact with members of the legislative and executive branches of the federal government.

He will report to Robert Jones, vice president - law, general counsel and secretary. Altmeyer's primary office will be located in the Washington, D.C. area.

Altmeyer possesses more than 20 years experience representing private industry in government affairs. Prior to the National Mining Association, Altmeyer spent seven years with the National Coal Association. He has also served as counsel to the Senate Labor and Human Resources Committee and counsel to former Senator Jennings Randolph of West Virginia.

"Amidst ongoing debates concerning our nation's energy self-sufficiency, we're pleased to have Tom onboard to educate and inform policymakers on coal's vital role," said Jones. "Tom's in-depth understanding of both the coal industry and the legislative process will prove invaluable."

Altmeyer holds a bachelor of science degree from the University of Notre Dame, an MBA from the University of Connecticut, and a law degree from Loyola University-New Orleans.

Arch Coal (NYSE: ACI) is the nation's second largest coal producer and mines low-sulfur coal exclusively. Through its subsidiary operations in West Virginia, Kentucky, Virginia, Wyoming, Colorado and Utah, Arch provides the fuel for approximately 6 percent of the electricity generated in the United States.