The Department of Labor (DOL) has announced that its Federal Black Lung Program will host an outreach event in Greenville, Kentucky, on May 20. The event is aimed at assisting current and former coal miners who are suffering from disabilities related to black lung disease, as well as their families, in filing or re-filing claims for benefits.
Administered by the DOL's Division of Coal Mine Workers’ Compensation, the program currently provides benefits to approximately 5,000 individuals in Kentucky. It also holds events nationwide to ensure eligible individuals can claim and receive benefits promptly.
“The Department of Labor encourages current and former coal miners, and their survivors, to attend an outreach event to learn more about their eligibility for benefits under the Black Lung Benefits Act,” said Mike Chance, Director of the Division of Coal Mine Workers’ Compensation. He added that attendees could receive help with filing or refiling claims and gain information on eligibility and the adjudication process.
The public event will take place at the Harbin Memorial Public Library located at 117 S. Main St. in Greenville from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with no pre-registration required.
For further information or assistance regarding submitting bills for black lung-related medical treatment, services, or medical supplies, individuals can contact the Federal Black Lung Program at 1-800-347-2502.