WASHINGTON – The Department of Labor today announced that its Federal Black Lung Program will host outreach events for current and former coal miners suffering disabilities related to black lung disease, and their families and survivors, on May 21 in Indiana and on May 22 in Illinois.
Administered by the department’s Division of Coal Mine Workers’ Compensation, the program currently provides benefits to about 200 people in Indiana and 300 in Illinois. The program holds outreach events throughout the nation to ensure eligible individuals can claim and receive benefits in a timely manner.
“The Department of Labor encourages current and former coal miners and their survivors to attend an outreach event to learn more about their benefits eligibility under the Black Lung Benefits Act,” said Division of Coal Mine Workers’ Compensation Director Mike Chance. “Attendees can get help with filing or refiling claims and get information on eligibility and the adjudication process.”
Events are open to the public and do not require pre-registration to attend. They will be as follows:
| Date | Location | Address | City | State | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 21 | Knox County Public Library | 521 North 6th St. | Vincennes | Indiana | 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. |
| May 22 | Pinckneyville Public Library | 312 S. Walnut St. | Pinckneyville | Illinois | 12 p.m.-6 p.m. |
For more information and assistance on submitting any bills for black lung-related medical treatment, services, or medical supplies, contact the Federal Black Lung Program at 1-800-347-2502.
Read important information about filing a claim for benefits under the Black Lung Benefits Act.
Learn more about the Office of Workers’ Compensation.
Media Contacts:
Frances Alonzo, 202-997-6977, alonzo.frances@dol.gov
Paloma Renteria, 202.693.4667, renteria.paloma.b@dol.gov
Release Number: 24-823-NAT