Easier Benefits for Miners' Families with Lung Disease
This act aims to simplify the process for families of deceased miners suffering from black lung disease to obtain benefits. It introduces new rules regarding the presumption that death was caused by the disease, potentially speeding up financial support. Additionally, the act establishes a program to cover legal and medical expenses for claimants.
Key points
Easier access to benefits for miners' families: New rules make it simpler to prove a miner's death was due to black lung disease, accelerating the benefit application process.
Coverage for legal and medical costs: The act creates a program to help cover attorney fees and medical expenses related to benefit claims, reducing financial burden on families.
Restoration of prior provisions: Changes reinstate certain pre-1981 provisions, potentially expanding eligibility for benefits.
Reports on benefits: The government will review benefit payments, their adequacy, and impact on beneficiaries, which may lead to further improvements.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_6761
Sponsor: Rep. McGarvey, Morgan [D-KY-3]
Process start date: 2023-12-13