For any business currently or potentially facing claims under the Black Lung Benefits Act (BLBA), consultation with an experienced black lung defense lawyer is critical. The businesses at risk are not limited to coal mining operations. Even vendors…

September 16, 2021

Black lung, or pneumoconiosis, is a medical condition that may result from respiratory exposure to coal dust. Companies that operate coal mines or employ individuals who may be exposed to coal dust on the job are required to obtain black lung…

December 02, 2021

When it comes to estimating liabilities for black lung claims in West Virginia (WV), and elsewhere, there seems to be only one consistent factor—the challenges and difficulty involved in determining the likely expense of an individual claim or…

July 05, 2022

The political and legislative environment around federal black lung claims and benefits is complex and challenging for employers and employees alike. Unlike most claims filed for work-related injuries, federal black lung claims are not eligible for…

July 15, 2022

As a coal operator, you understand the risks and challenges posed by black lung claims filed by current and former workers. Managing and estimating black lung liabilities can be arduous, and it is important to know what options companies have to…

October 30, 2022

With inflation reaching levels not seen in decades, the entire country feels a financial squeeze. In an effort to stabilize the economy, the federal government created the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022. The act has important implications that…

October 30, 2022

Employers are generally aware that their employees’ wages can be garnished to pay child support, alimony, and other judgments or debts. However, when a current or former employee is receiving federal benefits, like Social Security or black lung…

February 24, 2023