Relief for Survivors of Miners Act of 2025
Summary
The Relief for Survivors of Miners Act of 2025 aims to amend the Black Lung Benefits Act to ease the benefits process for survivors of miners whose deaths were due to pneumoconiosis (black lung disease). The bill introduces rebuttable presumptions for deaths due to pneumoconiosis, restores certain pre-1981 provisions regarding total disability, and establishes an attorneys' fees and medical expenses payment program. It also mandates reports from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) on interim benefit payments and overall benefit sufficiency.
Expected Effects
The act will likely make it easier for survivors of miners who died from black lung disease to receive benefits. It could also increase the financial burden on coal mine operators and the federal government. The changes aim to streamline the claims process and provide financial assistance for legal and medical expenses.
Potential Benefits
- Easier Benefits Access: Simplifies the process for survivors to claim benefits.
- Financial Assistance: Provides funds for attorneys' fees and medical expenses.
- Retroactive Claims: Applies to claims filed up to 5 years before enactment and pending claims.
- Restored Provisions: Reinstates pre-1981 provisions, potentially expanding eligibility.
- GAO Reports: Ensures ongoing review and potential improvements to the program.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Costs: May increase costs for coal mine operators through reimbursement of the fund.
- Potential for Fraud: Eased presumptions could open the door to fraudulent claims, requiring careful oversight.
- Federal Burden: Increased benefit payments and administrative costs could strain federal resources.
- Recoupment Stress: GAO reports highlight potential stress from recoupment of interim benefits if claims are denied.
- Limited Attorney Fees: Caps on attorney fees might discourage some lawyers from taking on complex cases.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8), which includes the coal mining industry. The bill's provisions for benefits and payments are subject to due process (5th Amendment) and equal protection (14th Amendment).
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).