If you have spent much time watching day-time television or worse…late night television, then chances are you have seen more than your share of legal commercial surrounding Black Lung lawsuits and claims. The problem became so widespread and severe that the Federal government stepped in to provide benefits to employees affected by the condition.
This program is run and funded by the Division of Coal Mine Workers’ Compensation.  Its mission is to judge and process benefits claims filed by coal miners and the families of deceased workers. There are 17 offices across theUS, including several district offices and field offices. The program provides benefits for accidents, injuries and illnesses sustained as a result of performing work duties in and around the coal mines of our country.
The problem has continued to grow and today, the program processes over 6,000 new claims per year and manages over 72,000 on-going benefit claims.  About $397 million dollars in benefit payments are processed annually. Payments are made both to employees and former employees, as well as to surviving families and dependents. These payments cover wages, medical expenses, diagnosis and treatment.
Black Lung disease is a serious, even life-threatening illness which impacts many employees’ years after initial exposure. Small business owners and employers should be aware of the condition when hiring former coal mine workers, delivery truck drivers or others with exposure.
For additional information, please visit the DOL’s web site, or contact WCCOP and speak to a representative for more information.
