Manchin Encourages West Virginians to Submit Comments on Black Lung Benefits Rules

Press Release

U.S. Senator Joe Manchin today encouraged West Virginians to formally submit their comments to the Federal Register regarding the proposed rule to the Black Lung Benefits Act (BLBA) regulations. The rule, published by the Department of Labor's (DOL) Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP), would improve the black lung benefits program by addressing obstacles that prevent miners with black lung from seeking benefits.

This proposed rule includes reforms offered in the "Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act," legislation that Senator Manchin has introduced.

"Our coal miners have mined the coal that keeps our lights on, heats our homes, and powers our businesses," Senator Manchin said. "It is unacceptable that they are forced to face the effects of black lung disease without our help. The very least we can do for our miners is make sure they are not met with burdensome roadblocks when seeking the health benefits they rightly deserve. With this proposed rule, the Department of Labor is putting the well-being of our miners first by improving transparency and efficiency in the claims process. I hope all West Virginians -- especially those who have been impacted by black lung disease -- will take time to review and comment on this rule."

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