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Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2022
4/17/2024, 11:44 PM
Summary of Bill HR 6102
The key provisions of the bill include expanding eligibility for black lung benefits to cover more individuals who have been affected by the disease. This includes extending benefits to miners who have worked in surface mining operations, as well as those who have worked in underground mines. The bill also seeks to streamline the claims process for black lung benefits, making it easier for affected individuals to access the support they need.
Additionally, the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2022 includes provisions to increase the level of benefits available to affected individuals, ensuring that they receive adequate financial support to cover medical expenses and other costs associated with their illness. The bill also includes measures to improve the quality of medical care available to coal miners with black lung disease, ensuring that they receive the best possible treatment and support. Overall, Bill 117 HR 6102 represents a significant step forward in addressing the needs of coal miners suffering from black lung disease. By expanding eligibility for benefits, streamlining the claims process, and increasing the level of support available, the bill aims to provide much-needed assistance to those affected by this devastating illness.
Congressional Summary of HR 6102
Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2022
This bill revises requirements for miners' claims for pneumoconiosis (black lung disease) benefits.
Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Labor to
- pay the attorneys' fees of specified parties on a qualifying benefit claim,
- give a claimant the opportunity to substantiate a claim for benefits through a pulmonary evaluation,
- authorize a CT (computerized tomography) scan in diagnosing complicated pneumoconiosis, and
- develop a strategy to reduce delays in adjudication of black lung disease benefits claims.
The bill also establishes criteria that a mining operator must meet to self-insure against claims and increases from $1,000 to $25,000 the daily penalty amount that may be assessed against a mining operator that fails to make black lung benefits payments.
The bill authorizes (1) black lung disease clinics to use federal funds to help individuals file claims, and (2) certain previously denied claimants to file a new claim for black lung disease benefits within one year.
The bill prohibits a person from (1) knowingly and willfully making a false statement or misrepresentation in increasing or reducing black lung disease benefits, or (2) threatening or misleading a participant in a proceeding regarding such benefits.
Further, the bill revises (1) the standards of medical evidence that establish a presumption that a miner is totally disabled by black lung disease, and (2) payments to such miners.
Lastly, the bill provides statutory authority for the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs.
