DOL Hosts Federal Black Lung Program Events in Pennyslvania, Nationwide
The events aim to provide those affected by black lung disease and their families with guidance on filing benefits claims.
In an effort to support coal miners disabled by black lung disease, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has announced a series of outreach events in Pennsylvania.
According to a recent release, these events—scheduled from April 8-11, 2024—aim to aid current and former coal miners and their families in filing or refiling benefits claims under the Federal Black Lung Program. Attendees will receive guidance on filing claims and information on eligibility and the adjudication process.
The initiative, overseen by the DOL’s Division of Coal Mine Workers’ Compensation, is part of a broader effort to ensure those affected by black lung disease can access the benefits they are entitled to. Currently, the program supports approximately 1,600 individuals in Pennsylvania. The program hosts similar programs nationwide.
“The U.S. Department of Labor encourages current and former coal miners, and their survivors, to attend one of these outreach events to learn more about their eligibility for benefits under the Black Lung Benefits Act,” Division of Coal Mine Workers’ Compensation Director Mike Chance said in a statement. “Attendees can get help with filing or refiling claims and get information on eligibility and the adjudication process.”
The events do not require pre-registration and are designed to be accessible to the public, offering extended hours to accommodate as many individuals as possible. For more information on the Black Lung Program, visit the DOL’s webpage on the program.
