Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014

To ensure that claims for benefits under the Black Lung Benefits Act are processed in a fair and timely manner, to better protect miners from pneumoconiosis (commonly known as black lung disease 1. Short title This Act may be cited as the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014 2. Table of contents The table of contents for this Act is as follows: Sec. 1. Short title. Sec. 2. Table of contents. Sec. 3. Findings. Title I—Black lung benefits Part A—Improving the process for filing and adjudicating claims for benefits Sec. 101. Mandatory disclosure of medical information and reports. Sec. 102. Legal fees. Sec. 103. Clarifying eligibility for black lung benefits. Sec. 104. Restoring adequate benefit adjustments for miners suffering from black lung disease and for their dependent family members. Sec. 105. Treatment of evidence in equipoise. Sec. 106. Providing assistance with claims for miners and their dependent family members. Sec. 107. False statements or misrepresentations, attorney disqualification, and discovery sanctions. Sec. 108. Development of medical evidence by the Secretary. Sec. 109. Establishment of pilot program to provide impartial classifications of chest radiographs. Sec. 110. Medical evidence training program. Sec. 111. Technical and conforming amendments. Sec. 112. Readjudicating cases involving certain chest radiographs. Part B—Reports To improve the administration of benefits under the Black Lung Benefits Act Sec. 113. Strategy to reduce delays in adjudication. Sec. 114. GAO report on black lung program. Title II—Standard for respirable dust concentration Sec. 201. Standard for respirable dust concentration. Title III—Establishing the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs Sec. 301. Office of Workers' Compensation Programs. Title IV—Severability Sec. 401. Severability. 3. Findings Congress finds the following: (1) The Black Lung Benefits Act ( 30 U.S.C. 901 et seq. black lung disease (2) The Government Accountability Office has found that many claimants under the Black Lung Benefits Act are not equipped with the medical and legal resources necessary to develop evidence to meet the requirements for benefits. Miners often lack complete and reliable medical evidence, consequently increasing the risk that the individuals who review claims for benefits will be presented with insufficient medical evidence. Similarly, without better options for legal representation, significant numbers of such claimants proceed with their claims through a complex and potentially long administrative process without resources that Department of Labor officials and black lung disease experts note are important for developing evidence and supporting their claims. Only a quarter of claimants are represented by an attorney when filing a claim. Absent efforts to remedy administrative problems and address structural weaknesses in the process for obtaining benefits, claimants with meritorious claims will not receive benefits. (3) Full exchange and disclosure between the parties of relevant medical information is essential for fair adjudication of claims under the Black Lung Benefits Act, regardless of whether the parties intend to submit such information into evidence. Records of adjudications reveal that some mine operators’ legal representatives have withheld relevant evidence from claimants, administrative law judges, and, in some cases, even their own medical experts. In several cases, the disclosure of such evidence would have substantiated a miner’s claim for benefits. Withholding medical information can endanger miners by depriving them of important information about their own health and the potential need to seek medical treatment. (4) Given the remedial nature of the Black Lung Benefits Act, when an adjudicator determines that evidence is evenly balanced, it is appropriate for any resulting doubt to be resolved in favor of the claimant. The Supreme Court vacated this longstanding legal principle, not on substantive grounds, but because its application conflicted with the requirements of another statute. Such principle needs to be reinstated in the Black Lung Benefits Act because it provides fairness and improves the administration of benefits. (5) Physicians who read lung x-rays as part of pulmonary assessments used in proceedings for claims under the Black Lung Benefits Act are required to demonstrate competency in classifying chest radiographs by becoming certified as B Readers by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (referred to in this section as NIOSH not to credit negative chest x-ray readings for pneumoconiosis have been rehabilitated (6) As of the date of enactment of this Act, more than one year has passed since survivors were denied benefits on claims under the Black Lung Benefits Act that involved the consideration of chest radiograph interpretations rendered by a certain physician whose interpretations have since been determined by the Department of Labor to be generally not worthy of credit. Such survivors should be permitted to file a new claim for benefits under such Act. However, a survivor is effectively barred from filing a new claim one year after a decision regarding such benefits is final, constituting an injustice that merits a remedy. (7) Between the calendar years 2004 and 2014, a reduction in the number of administrative law judges in the Department of Labor, coupled with a large increase in the number of cases filed under the Black Lung Benefits Act, cuts to nondefense discretionary spending, furloughs resulting from sequestration, and the 16-day shutdown of the Federal Government during the calendar year 2013, has created extensive delays in adjudicating claims under such Act and numerous other labor and employment laws. Due to the imbalance between resources and caseloads, it takes 429 days to assign a case to an administrative law judge and a typical claim under such Act remains unresolved for an average of 42 months prior to a decision by an administrative law judge. These delays directly and severely impact the lives of workers throughout the United States, placing an undue financial and emotional burden on the affected individuals and their families. (8) Contrary to the intent of Congress, benefits payments under the Black Lung Benefits Act do not automatically increase with the rising cost of living. Benefit payments are tied to the monthly pay rate for Federal employees in grade GS–2, step 1. In several of the fiscal years prior to the enactment of this Act, there was a pay freeze for Federal employees, which had the effect of eliminating cost-of-living adjustments for miners, surviving spouses, and dependents under the Black Lung Benefits Act during such years. (9) A competent assessment of medical information and testimony, which often involves multiple physicians disputing a diagnosis, is necessary in determining whether to award benefits under the Black Lung Benefits Act. To ensure that a determination regarding a claim for benefits under such Act is fair and accurate, regular training is needed regarding— (A) developments in pulmonary medicine relating to black lung disease; (B) medical evidence necessary to sustain claims for such benefits; and (C) the proper weight to be given to conflicting evidence. (10) Black lung disease has been the underlying or contributing cause of death of more than 76,000 miners since 1968. After decades of decline, the incidence of coal miners with black lung disease is on the rise. According to NIOSH, miners are developing advanced cases of the disease at younger ages. In response, the Department of Labor has taken important steps to combat the disease, including promulgating a rule that reduces the allowed concentration of coal dust and eliminates weaknesses in the current dust sampling system. Retrospective studies should be continued to determine whether revisions to the standards are necessary to eliminate the disease. I Black lung benefits A Improving the process for filing and adjudicating claims for benefits 101. Mandatory disclosure of medical information and reports Part A of the Black Lung Benefits Act ( 30 U.S.C. 901 et seq. 403. Mandatory medical information disclosure (a) Report In any claim for benefits under this title, an operator that requires a miner to submit to a medical examination regarding the miner’s respiratory or pulmonary condition shall, not later than 21 days after the miner has been examined, deliver to the claimant a complete copy of the examining physician’s report. The examining physician’s report shall— (1) be in writing; and (2) set out in detail the findings of such physician, including any diagnoses and conclusions, the results of any diagnostic imaging tests, and any other tests performed on the miner. (b) Disclosure In any claim for benefits under this title, each party shall provide all other parties in the proceeding with a copy of all medical information developed regarding the miner’s physical condition relating to such claim, even if the party does not intend to submit the information as evidence. Such medical information shall include the opinion of any examining physician, and any examining or nonexamining physician’s interpretations of radiographs or pathology. (c) Regulations The Secretary shall promulgate regulations regarding the disclosure of medical information under this section, and such regulations may establish sanctions for noncompliance with this section. . 102. Legal fees Part A of the Black Lung Benefits Act ( 30 U.S.C. 901 et seq. 404. Attorneys' fee payment program (a) Program established (1) In general Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014 (2) Qualifying claim A qualifying claim for purposes of this section is a contested claim for benefits under this title for which a final order has not been entered within one year of the filing of the claim. (3) Use of payments from the fund Notwithstanding any other provision of law, amounts in the fund shall be available for payments authorized by the Secretary under this section. (b) Payments authorized (1) In general If a claimant for benefits under this title obtains an effective award for a qualifying claim before an administrative law judge, the Benefits Review Board established under section 21(b) of the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act ( 33 U.S.C. 921(b) (2) Maximum The program established under this section shall not pay more than a total of $4,500 in attorneys’ fees for any single qualifying claim. (c) Reimbursement of funds In any case in which a qualifying claim results in a final order awarding compensation, the liable operator shall reimburse the fund for any fees paid under this section, subject to enforcement by the Secretary under section 424 and in the same manner as compensation orders are enforced under section 21(d) of the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act ( 33 U.S.C. 921(d) (d) Additional program rules Nothing in this section shall limit or otherwise affect an operator's liability for any attorneys’ fees awarded by an administrative law judge, the Benefits Review Board, or a Federal court, that were not paid by the program under this section. Nothing in this section shall limit or otherwise affect the Secretary's authority to use amounts in the fund to pay approved attorneys’ fees in claims for benefits under this title for which a final order awarding compensation has been entered and the operator is unable to pay. (e) No recoupment of attorneys’ fees Any payment for attorneys’ fees made by the Secretary under this section shall not be recouped from the claimant or the claimant’s attorney. . 103. Clarifying eligibility for black lung benefits Section 411(c) of the Black Lung Benefits Act ( 30 U.S.C. 921(c) (3) If x-ray, biopsy, autopsy, or other medically accepted and relevant test or procedure establishes that a miner is suffering or has suffered from a chronic dust disease of the lung, diagnosed as complicated pneumoconiosis or progressive massive fibrosis (pneumoconiosis that has formed an opacity, mass, or lesion greater than one centimeter in diameter), then there shall be an irrebuttable presumption that such miner is totally disabled due to pneumoconiosis, that the miner’s death was due to pneumoconiosis, or that at the time of death the miner was totally disabled by pneumoconiosis, as the case may be. A chest radiograph, which yields one or more large opacities (greater than one centimeter in diameter), and would be classified in category A, B, or C in the International Classification of Radiographs of Pneumoconioses by the International Labor Organization, shall be sufficient to invoke the presumption, in the absence of more probative evidence sufficient to establish that the etiology of a large opacity is not pneumoconiosis. (4) If a miner was employed for 15 years or more in one or more coal mines, and if there is a chest radiograph submitted in connection with the claim under this title of such miner or such miner’s surviving spouse, child, parent, brother, sister, or dependent and it is interpreted as negative with respect to the requirements of paragraph (3), and if other evidence demonstrates the existence of a totally disabling respiratory or pulmonary impairment, then there shall be a rebuttable presumption that such miner is totally disabled due to pneumoconiosis, that the miner’s death was due to pneumoconiosis, or that at the time of death the miner was totally disabled by pneumoconiosis. In the case of a living miner, a spouse's affidavit may not be used by itself to establish the presumption under this paragraph. The presumption under this paragraph may be rebutted only by establishing that such miner does not, or did not, have pneumoconiosis, or that no part of such miner's respiratory or pulmonary impairment was caused by pneumoconiosis. . 104. Restoring adequate benefit adjustments for miners suffering from black lung disease and for their dependent family members Section 412(a) of the Black Lung Benefits Act ( 30 U.S.C. 922(a) (1) In the case of total disability of a miner due to pneumoconiosis, the disabled miner shall be paid benefits during the disability— (A) for any calendar year preceding January 1, 2015, at a rate equal to 37 ½ (B) for the calendar year beginning on January 1, 2015, at a rate of $7,980 per year, payable in 12 equal monthly payments; and (C) for each calendar year thereafter, at a rate equal to the amount under subparagraph (B) increased by an amount equal to any increase in the annual rate of the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers, as published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. . 105. Treatment of evidence in equipoise Section 422 of the Black Lung Benefits Act ( 30 U.S.C. 932 (m) In determining the validity of a claim under this title, an adjudicator who finds that the evidence is evenly balanced on an issue shall resolve any resulting doubt in the claimant’s favor and find that the claimant has met the burden of persuasion on such issue. . 106. Providing assistance with claims for miners and their dependent family members Section 427(a) of the Black Lung Benefits Act ( 30 U.S.C. 937(a) the analysis, examination, and treatment coal miners. the analysis, examination, and treatment of respiratory and pulmonary impairments in active and inactive coal miners and for assistance on behalf of miners, spouses, dependents, and other family members with claims arising under this title. 107. False statements or misrepresentations, attorney disqualification, and discovery sanctions Section 431 of the Black Lung Benefits Act ( 30 U.S.C. 941 431. False statements or misrepresentations, attorney disqualification, and discovery sanctions (a) In general No person, including any claimant, physician, operator, duly authorized agent of such operator, or employee of an insurance carrier, shall— (1) knowingly and willfully make a false statement or misrepresentation for the purpose of obtaining, increasing, reducing, denying, or terminating benefits under this title; or (2) threaten, coerce, intimidate, deceive, or knowingly mislead a party, representative, witness, potential witness, judge, or anyone participating in a proceeding regarding any matter related to a proceeding under this title. (b) Fine; imprisonment Any person who engages in the conduct described in subsection (a) shall, upon conviction, be subject to a fine in accordance with title 18, United States Code, imprisoned for not more than 5 years, or both. (c) Prompt investigation The United States Attorney for the district in which the conduct described in subsection (a) is alleged to have occurred shall make every reasonable effort to promptly investigate each complaint of a violation of such subsection. (d) Disqualification (1) In general An attorney or expert witness who engages in the conduct described in subsection (a) shall, in addition to the fine or imprisonment provided under subsection (b), be permanently disqualified from representing any party, or appearing in any proceeding, under this title. (2) Attorney disqualification In addition to the disqualification described in paragraph (1), the Secretary may disqualify an attorney from representing any party in a proceeding under this title for either a limited term or permanently, if the attorney— (A) engages in any action or behavior that is prejudicial to the fair and orderly conduct of such proceeding; or (B) is suspended or disbarred by any court of the United States, any State, or any territory, commonwealth, or possession of the United States with jurisdiction over the proceeding. (e) Discovery sanctions An administrative law judge may sanction a party who fails to comply with an order to compel discovery or disclosure, or to supplement earlier responses, in a proceeding under this title. These sanctions may include, as appropriate— (1) drawing an adverse inference against the noncomplying party on the facts relevant to the discovery or disclosure order; (2) limiting the noncomplying party’s claims, defenses, or right to introduce evidence; and (3) rendering a default decision against the noncomplying party. (f) Regulations The Secretary shall promulgate regulations that— (1) provide procedures for the disqualifications and sanctions under this section and are appropriate for all parties; and (2) distinguish between parties that are represented by an attorney and parties that are not represented by an attorney. . 108. Development of medical evidence by the Secretary Part C of the Black Lung Benefits Act ( 30 U.S.C. 931 et seq. 435. Development of medical evidence by the Secretary (a) Complete pulmonary evaluation Upon request by a claimant for benefits under this title, the Secretary shall provide the claimant an opportunity to substantiate the claim through a complete pulmonary evaluation of the miner that shall include— (1) an initial report, conducted by a qualified physician on the list provided under subsection (d), and in accordance with subsection (d)(5) and sections 402(f)(1)(D) and 413(b); and (2) if the conditions under subsection (b) are met, any supplemental medical evidence described in subsection (c). (b) Conditions for supplemental medical evidence The Secretary shall develop supplemental medical evidence, in accordance with subsection (c)— (1) for any claim in which the Secretary recommends an award of benefits based on the results of the initial report under subsection (a)(1) and a party opposing such award submits evidence that could be considered contrary to the findings of the Secretary; and (2) for any compensation case under this title heard by an administrative law judge, in which— (A) the Secretary has awarded benefits to the claimant; (B) the party opposing such award has submitted evidence not previously reviewed that could be considered contrary to the award under subparagraph (A); and (C) the claimant or, if the claimant is represented by an attorney, the claimant’s attorney consents to the Secretary developing supplemental medical evidence. (c) Process for supplemental medical evidence (1) In general Except as provided under paragraph (2), to develop supplemental medical evidence under conditions described in subsection (b), the Secretary shall request the physician who conducted the initial report under subsection (a)(1) to— (A) review any medical evidence submitted after such report or the most recent supplemental report, as appropriate; and (B) update his or her opinion in a supplemental report. (2) Alternative physician If such physician is no longer available or is unwilling to provide supplemental medical evidence under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall select another qualified physician to provide such evidence. (d) Qualified physicians for complete pulmonary evaluation and protections for suitability and potential conflicts of interest (1) Qualified physicians list The Secretary shall create and maintain a list of qualified physicians to be selected by a claimant to perform the complete pulmonary evaluation described in subsection (a). (2) Public availability The Secretary shall make the list under this subsection available to the public. (3) Annual evaluation Each year, the Secretary shall update such list by reviewing the suitability of the listed qualified physicians and assessing any potential conflicts of interest. (4) Criteria for suitability In determining whether a physician is suitable to be on the list under this subsection, the Secretary shall consult the National Practitioner Data Bank of the Department of Health and Human Services and assess reports of adverse licensure, certifications, hospital privilege, and professional society actions involving the physician. In no case shall such list include any physician— (A) who is not licensed to practice medicine in any State or any territory, commonwealth, or possession of the United States; (B) whose license is revoked by a medical licensing board of any State, territory, commonwealth, or possession of the United States; or (C) whose license is suspended by a medical licensing board of any State, territory, commonwealth, or possession of the United States. (5) Conflicts of interest The Secretary shall develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure that any actual or potential conflict of interest of qualified physicians on the list under this subsection, including both individual and organizational conflicts of interest, are disclosed to the Department, and to provide such disclosure to claimants. Such policies and procedures shall provide that, unless the claimant knowingly and with the benefit of full disclosure waives the following limitations, a physician shall not be used to perform a complete pulmonary medical evaluation under subsection (a) that is reimbursed pursuant to subsection (f), if— (A) such physician is employed by, under contract to, or otherwise providing services to a private party opposing the claim, a law firm or lawyer representing such opposing party, or an interested insurer or other interested third party; or (B) such physician has been retained by a private party opposing the claim, a law firm or lawyer representing such opposing party, or an interested insurer or other interested third party in the previous 24 months. (e) Record Upon receipt of any initial report or supplemental report under this section, the Secretary shall enter the report in the record and provide a copy of such report to all parties to the proceeding. (f) Expenses All expenses related to obtaining the medical evidence under this section shall be paid for by the fund. If a claimant receives a final award of benefits, the operator liable for payment of benefits, if any, shall reimburse the fund for such expenses, which shall include interest. . 109. Establishment of pilot program to provide impartial classifications of chest radiographs (a) Establishment Part C of the Black Lung Benefits Act ( 30 U.S.C. 931 et seq. 436. Establishment of pilot program to provide impartial classifications of chest radiographs (a) Definitions In this section: (1) B Reader The term B Reader (A) has a valid license to practice medicine in not less than one State, territory, commonwealth, or possession of the United States; and (B) has demonstrated a proficiency, through an examination administered by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, in classifying chest radiographs for findings consistent with pneumoconiosis using the International Classification of Radiographs of Pneumoconioses by the International Labor Organization (ILO). (2) B Reader Panel The term B Reader Panel (3) Director The term Director (4) ILO classification The term ILO classification (5) B Reader Panel Pool The term B Reader Panel Pool (b) B Reader Panel Program (1) Establishment of pilot program (A) In general The Director shall establish, in the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, a pilot program to be known as the B Reader Panel Program (i) are operated in a manner to assure accurate ILO classifications, which may be used for claims for benefits described in subparagraph (C); (ii) only classify chest radiographs; and (iii) classify all appearances described in the International Classification of Radiographs of Pneumoconiosis or illustrated by the ILO Standard Radiographs. (B) Duration The B Reader Panel Program established under this section shall be conducted for a duration of one year, beginning after the issuance of necessary protocols and interim final rules under subsection (h). (C) Applicability A chest radiograph classification may only be requested under this section for a claim for benefits under this title where the presence or absence of complicated pneumoconiosis or progressive massive fibrosis (large opacities greater than or equal to category A of the ILO classification) is in fact at issue. (2) Program personnel matters (A) In general The Director may hire such personnel as are necessary to establish, manage, and evaluate the B Reader Panel Program, including a B Reader Program Director described in subparagraph (B). (B) B Reader Program Director The B Reader Program Director shall be a physician who is a B Reader and has documented expertise in ILO classifications. (C) Staff (i) In general In procuring the services of B Readers for this section, the Director may hire Federal personnel, contract for services, or both. (ii) Compensation The Director shall establish compensation rates for B Readers who are hired under contract. (3) Ethics policy (A) Code of ethics (i) In general In order to maximize the quality, objectivity, and confidence in ILO classifications under this section, the Director shall establish a binding code of ethics to which all B Readers in the B Reader Panel Pool shall agree to in writing and adhere. (ii) Contents The code of ethics shall include— (I) definitions and stipulations of procedures dealing with actual and apparent conflicts of interest and the appearance of bias or lack of sufficient impartiality; (II) a requirement that each such B Reader submits a conflict of interest disclosure statement to the Director and annually updates such statement; and (III) requirements for the content of the conflict of interest disclosure statements required under subclause (II). (B) B Reader ethics officer The Director shall designate an employee of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health as the B Reader Ethics Officer whose responsibilities shall include— (i) reviewing all conflict of interest disclosures of B Readers on the B Reader Panel Pool; (ii) investigating the validity of such disclosures; (iii) maintaining a list of such B Readers who fail to disclose a conflict of interest; (iv) addressing complaints about incomplete or inaccurate conflict of interest disclosures; (v) assessing whether any such B Reader has been improperly assigned to a panel due to a conflict of interest; and (vi) assuring full transparency of conflict of interest disclosures to the public. (4) Quality assurance program (A) Protocols (i) Establishment The Director shall establish a quality assurance program consisting of protocols to ensure that the results produced by B Reader Panels meet or exceed standards of performance required for accuracy and consistency. (ii) Protocols The protocols under this subparagraph shall include protocols— (I) for each B Reader to prepare an individual ILO classification report for each chest radiograph; and (II) for the preparation of a final ILO classification report for the chest radiograph. (iii) Additional reviewers If individual ILO classifications reported by each B Reader of a B Reader Panel diverge from each other by more than an acceptable variance, as determined by protocols established under subsection (h), the Director shall assign additional B Readers to the applicable B Reader Panel or convene an additional B Reader Panel, as the Director determines necessary, to assure that the ILO classification report of the initial B Reader Panel is accurate and scientifically valid. (iv) Use of known positive and negative x-rays as a quality control tool The quality assurance program under this paragraph shall use pre-read radiographs, for which ILO classifications have been previously established as external standards, with sufficient frequency in order to assure that B Readers on B Reader Panels read radiographs that are borderline positive or negative for complicated pneumoconiosis or progressive massive fibrosis (large opacities greater than or equal to category A of the ILO classification) with accuracy and consistency. (v) Blind readings In reading a radiograph to make an ILO classification, a B Reader shall be blinded from the origin of the radiograph. (B) Continuous improvement The Director shall establish a process for providing feedback to B Readers in the B Reader Pool with respect to their performance in providing ILO classifications and provide suggestions for improvement. (c) Creation and maintenance of B Reader Panel Pool (1) Establishment The Director shall establish a B Reader Panel Pool to be used for the B Reader Panel Program under this section. The Director shall solicit and select physicians who are B Readers for inclusion in the B Reader Panel Pool. (2) Selection and retention for B Readers on B Reader Panel Pool (A) In general The Director shall establish and disclose criteria by which B Readers are selected and retained within the B Reader Panel Pool, including minimum standards of performance described in subparagraph (B). (B) Minimum standards of performance The minimum standards of performance for inclusion in the B Reader Panel Pool shall include requiring the B Reader to make radiograph classifications consistent with ILO classification criteria that are consistently within acceptable norms, as established by the Director. (C) Considerations for selection In selecting a B Reader to be included in the B Reader Panel Pool, the Director shall— (i) assess, to the maximum extent practicable, the prior performance of the B Reader in making ILO classifications; (ii) consult the National Practitioner Data Bank of the Department of Health and Human Services for information on physician suitability; and (iii) assess reports of adverse licensure, certifications, hospital privilege, and professional society actions involving the B Reader. (D) Monitoring The Director shall monitor ILO classifications conducted under this section to determine if any B Reader included in the B Reader Panel Pool demonstrates a pattern of providing ILO classifications that are erroneous or not consistently within the acceptable norms, as established by the Director. (3) Process for removal (A) In general The Director shall be authorized to suspend or remove any B Reader from the B Reader Panel Pool for— (i) consistently failing to meet the minimum standards of performance under paragraph (2)(B); (ii) breaching the code of ethics under subsection (b)(3)(A); or (iii) other disqualifying conduct, as established by rule or policy. (B) Review The Director shall provide a process for a B Reader who is aggrieved by a decision of the Director under subparagraph (A) to seek review by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. The review by such Secretary shall not stay the suspension of the B Reader during the pendency of the review. (4) Disclosure The Director shall make publicly accessible— (A) the names and qualifications of the B Readers included in the B Reader Panel Pool; (B) the names of B Readers who have been suspended or removed from the B Reader Panel Pool and the reasons for such suspension or removal; (C) the conflict of interest disclosure statements required under subsection (b)(3)(A)(ii)(II); and (D) any pertinent information which the Director determines necessary to assure transparency and program integrity. (d) Eligibility To request ILO classifications Each of the following individuals may request an ILO classification under this section: (1) Claimants or operators, or their authorized representatives, in a claim for benefits that meets the requirements of subsection (b)(1)(C). (2) Individuals defined as adjudication officers by regulations of the Secretary. (e) Timing of reports Following the receipt of a written request for the classification of a chest radiograph, the Director shall provide a report conducted by a B Reader Panel— (1) for digital chest radiographic images, within 45 days; and (2) for film-based chest radiographs, within 90 days. (f) Testimony (1) Availability of director or designee The Director, or a designee of the Director, shall be available to respond to interrogatories or appear and testify about a B Reader Panel's conclusions or the process by which B Reader Panels classify radiographs in a case under subsection (b)(1)(C), upon the request of a party to such case. (2) Interrogatories and subpoenas for B Readers To the extent that additional information is reasonably necessary for the full development of evidence pertaining to a B Reader Panel Report in a case under subsection (b)(1)(C), a B Reader of a B Reader Panel— (A) may be required to respond to interrogatories with respect to the ILO classification provided by the B Reader in the case, only if so ordered by an administrative law judge; and (B) may not be required to appear and testify under subpoena, unless the party making such request demonstrates to an administrative law judge that— (i) (I) the B Reader Panel Report is incomplete or lacks information that is reasonably necessary for such full development; and (II) if responses to interrogatories were ordered, the responses are unclear or incomplete; or (ii) there is an extraordinary circumstance in which additional information that is reasonably necessary for such full development is otherwise unavailable from the Director and can only be provided by such B Reader. (g) Administrative costs (1) Establishment Funds necessary to establish and operate the B Reader Panel Program under this section shall be paid as an administrative cost from the fund. The Director shall consult with the Secretary on allocations of funds in establishing such program. (2) Costs of reports for B Reader Panels (A) Fees (i) In general The Director shall establish a fee for a B Reader Panel Report in accordance with clause (ii). Such fee shall be payable by the party requesting such report. No fee shall be charged if the request for such ILO classification is made by an individual defined as an adjudication officer by regulations of the Secretary. (ii) Limitation The amount of a fee under clause (i) shall not exceed the direct cost of hiring the B Readers of the B Reader Panel that made the ILO classification. (B) Legal costs (i) In general The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health shall use amounts in the fund to pay for all costs related to the appearance and responses to interrogatories of the Director or a designee of the Director, or a B Reader of a B Reader Panel, in a proceeding under this section. (ii) Representation of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health The General Counsel of the Department of Health and Human Services shall, in consultation with the Solicitor of Labor, represent the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health in any proceeding under this section, which costs shall be payable from the fund. (h) Protocols and interim final rules Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014 (i) Report to Congress (1) In general Not later than 30 days after the completion of the pilot program under this section, the Director shall, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor, prepare and submit a report to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House of Representatives that includes the information in paragraph (2). (2) Contents The report under this subsection shall include— (A) the number of B Reader Panels established under this section; (B) the number of B Readers participating in the pilot program under this section; (C) the effectiveness of the quality assurance program under subsection (b)(4); (D) the accuracy of the ILO classifications conducted by B Readers under this section; (E) challenges in the administration and implementation of such pilot program; (F) the costs and revenues of such pilot program; (G) the impact of the pilot program on the claims adjudication process; (H) a recommendation on whether the pilot program under this section should extend beyond the one-year duration under subsection (b)(1)(B); and (I) recommendations for any necessary modifications to such pilot program, if the Director recommends such an extension. . (b) Conforming amendment related to deposit of fees Section 9501(b) 26 U.S.C. 9501(b) (3) Certain fees Amounts collected as fees authorized under section 436(g)(2)(A) of the Black Lung Benefits Act. . 110. Medical evidence training program Part C of the Black Lung Benefits Act ( 30 U.S.C. 931 et seq. 437. Medical evidence training program (a) In general Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014 (1) District directors. (2) Claims examiners working under such directors. (3) Administrative law judges and attorney advisors supporting such judges. (4) Members of the Benefits Review Board established under section 21(b) of the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act ( 33 U.S.C. 921(b) (b) Training program topics The training program under this section shall provide an overview of topics that include— (1) new developments in pulmonary medicine relating to pneumoconiosis; (2) medical evidence, and other relevant evidence, sufficient to support a claim for benefits under this title; and (3) weighing conflicting medical evidence and testimony concerning eligibility for such benefits. (c) Timing of training (1) Individuals hired or appointed prior to the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014 Any district director, claims examiner, administrative law judge, attorney advisor supporting such judge, or member of the Benefits Review Board described in subsection (a)(4), who was hired or appointed prior to the date of enactment of the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014 (2) Individuals hired or appointed after the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014 Any district director, claims examiner, administrative law judge, attorney advisor supporting such judge, or member of the Benefits Review Board described in subsection (a)(4), who is not described in paragraph (1) shall complete the training program under this section prior to engaging in any work under this title and not less than annually thereafter. . 111. Technical and conforming amendments The Black Lung Benefits Act ( 30 U.S.C. 901 et seq. (1) in section 401(a) ( 30 U.S.C. 901(a) or who were found to be totally disabled by such disease such disease (2) in section 402— (A) in subsection (a), by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following: (2) a spouse who is a member of the same household as the miner, or is receiving regular contributions from the miner for support, or whose spouse is a miner who has been ordered by a court to contribute to support, or who meets the requirements of paragraph (1) or (2) of section 216(b) of the Social Security Act or paragraph (1) or (2) of section 216(f) of such Act. An individual is the spouse spouse divorced wife divorced husband ; (B) by striking subsection (e) and inserting the following: (e) The term surviving spouse surviving spouse surviving divorced wife surviving divorced husband ; (C) in subsection (g)— (i) in paragraph (2)(B)(ii), by striking he ceased the individual ceased (ii) in the matter following paragraph (2)(C), by striking widow surviving spouse (D) in subsection (h), by striking Internal Revenue Code of 1954 Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (E) in subsection (i), by striking Internal Revenue Code of 1954 Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (3) in section 411 ( 30 U.S.C. 921 (A) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following: (a) The Secretary shall, in accordance with the provisions of this title, and the regulations promulgated by the Secretary under this title, make payments of benefits in respect of— (1) total disability of any miner due to pneumoconiosis; (2) the death of any miner whose death was due to pneumoconiosis; (3) total disability of any miner at the time of the miner’s death with respect to a claim filed under part C prior to January 1, 1982; (4) survivors’ benefits for any claim filed after January 1, 2005, that is pending on or after March 23, 2010, where the miner is found entitled to receive benefits at the time of the miner’s death as a result of the miner’s claim filed under part C; and (5) survivors’ benefits where the miner is found entitled to receive benefits at the time of the miner’s death resulting from the miner’s claim filed under part C before January 1, 1982. ; and (B) in subsection (c)— (i) in paragraph (1), by striking his pneumoconiosis the miner’s pneumoconiosis (ii) in paragraph (2), by striking his death the miner’s death (4) in section 412 ( 30 U.S.C. 922 (A) in subsection (a)— (i) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following: (2) In the case of a surviving spouse— (A) of a miner whose death is due to pneumoconiosis; (B) in a claim filed after January 1, 2005, and that is pending on or after March 23, 2010, of a miner who is found entitled to receive benefits at the time of the miner’s death as a result of the miner’s claim filed under part C; (C) of a miner who is found entitled to receive benefits at the time of the miner’s death as a result of the miner’s claim filed under part C before January 1, 1982; or (D) in a claim filed under part C before January 1, 1982, of a miner who was totally disabled by pneumoconiosis at the time of the miner’s death, benefits shall be paid to the miner’s surviving spouse at the rate the deceased miner would receive such benefits if he were totally disabled. ; (ii) in paragraph (3)— (I) by striking (3) In the case section 411(c) (3)(A) In the case of the child or children of a miner described in subparagraph (B) (II) by striking he the child (III) by striking widow (IV) by adding at the end the following: (B) Subparagraph (A) shall apply in the case of any child or children— (i) of a miner whose death is due to pneumoconiosis; (ii) in a claim filed after January 1, 2005, that is pending on or after March 23, 2010, of a miner who is found entitled to receive benefits at the time of the miner’s death as a result of the miner’s claim filed under part C; (iii) of a miner who is found entitled to receive benefits at the time of the miner’s death as a result of the miner’s claim filed under part C before January 1, 1982; (iv) in a claim filed under part C before January 1, 1982, of a miner who was totally disabled by pneumoconiosis at the time of the miner’s death; (v) of a surviving spouse who is found entitled to receive benefits under this part at the time of the surviving spouse’s death; or (vi) entitled to the payment of benefits under paragraph (5) of section 411(c). ; and (iii) in paragraph (5)— (I) by striking the first sentence and inserting the following: In the case of the dependent parent or parents of a miner who is not survived at the time of death by a surviving spouse or a child and (i) whose death is due to pneumoconiosis, (ii) in a claim filed after January 1, 2005, that is pending on or after March 23, 2010, who is found entitled to receive benefits at the time of his the miner’s death as a result of the miner’s claim filed under part C, (iii) who is found entitled to receive benefits at the time of his death as a result of the miner’s claim filed under part C before January 1, 1982, or (iv) in a claim filed under part C before January 1, 1982, who was totally disabled by pneumoconiosis at the time of the miner’s death; in the case of the dependent surviving brother(s) or sister(s) of such a miner who is not survived at the time of the miner’s death by a surviving spouse, child, or parent; in the case of the dependent parent or parents of a miner (who is not survived at the time of the miner’s death by a surviving spouse or child) who are entitled to the payment of benefits under paragraph (5) of section 411(c); or in the case of the dependent surviving brother(s) or sister(s) of a miner (who is not survived at the time of the miner’s death by a surviving spouse, child, or parent) who are entitled to the payment of benefits under paragraph (5) of section 411(c), benefits shall be paid under this part to such parent(s), or to such brother(s), or sister(s), at the rate specified in paragraph (3) (as if such parent(s) or such brother(s) or sister(s), were the children of such miner). (II) in the fourth sentence— (aa) by striking brother only if he brother or sister only if the brother or sister (bb) by striking before he ceased before the brother or sister ceased (iv) in paragraph (6), by striking prescribed by him prescribed by such Secretary (B) in subsection (b)— (i) by striking his such miner’s (ii) by striking widow surviving spouse (C) in subsection (c), by striking Internal Revenue Code of 1954 Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (5) in section 413 ( 30 U.S.C. 923 (A) in subsection (b)— (i) in the second sentence, by striking his wife’s affidavits affidavits of the miner’s spouse (ii) in the ninth sentence, by striking widow surviving spouse (iii) by striking the last sentence; and (B) in subsection (c), by striking his claim the claim (6) in section 414 ( 30 U.S.C. 924 (A) in subsection (a)— (i) in paragraph (1), by striking widow, within six months after the death of her husband surviving spouse, within six months after the death of the miner (ii) in paragraph (2)(C), by striking his the child’s (B) in subsection (e)— (i) by striking widow surviving spouse (ii) by striking his death the miner’s death (7) in section 415(a) ( 30 U.S.C. 925(a) (A) in paragraph (1), by striking Internal Revenue Code of 1954 Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (B) in paragraph (2)— (i) by striking he such Secretary (ii) by striking him such Secretary (8) in section 421 ( 30 U.S.C. 931 (A) in subsection (a), by striking widows spouses (B) in subsection (b)(2)— (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking he such Secretary (ii) in subparagraph (F), by striking promulgated by him promulgated by such Secretary (9) in section 422 ( 30 U.S.C. 932 (A) in subsection (a)— (i) by striking Internal Revenue Code of 1954 Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (ii) by striking he such Secretary (B) in subsection (i)(4), by striking Internal Revenue Code of 1954 Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (C) in subsection (j), by striking Internal Revenue Code of 1954 Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (10) in section 423(a) ( 30 U.S.C. 933(a) he such operator (11) in section 424(b) ( 30 U.S.C. 934(b) (A) in the matter following subparagraph (B) of paragraph (1), by striking him such operator (B) in paragraph (3), by striking Internal Revenue Code of 1954 Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (C) in paragraph (5), by striking Internal Revenue Code of 1954 Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (12) in section 428 ( 30 U.S.C. 938 (A) in subsection (a), by striking him such operator (B) in subsection (b)— (i) in the first sentence, by striking he the miner (ii) in the third sentence, by striking he the Secretary (iii) in the ninth sentence— (I) by striking he the Secretary (II) by striking his the miner’s (iv) in the tenth sentence, by striking he the Secretary (13) in section 430 ( 30 U.S.C. 940 (A) by striking 1977 and 1977, (B) by striking 1981 1981, and the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014, and any amendments made after the date of enactment of such Act, 112. Readjudicating cases involving certain chest radiographs (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Covered chest radiograph The term covered chest radiograph (2) Covered individual The term covered individual (3) Covered survivor The term covered survivor (A) is a survivor of a covered individual whose claim under the Black Lung Benefits Act was still pending at the time of the covered individual’s death; and (B) who continued to seek an award with respect to the covered individual’s claim after the covered individual’s death. (b) Claims A covered individual or a covered survivor whose claim for benefits under the Black Lung Benefits Act ( 30 U.S.C. 901 et seq. (c) Adjudication on the merits (1) In general Any new claim filed under subsection (b) shall be adjudicated on the merits and shall not include consideration of a covered chest radiograph. (2) Covered survivor Any new claim filed under subsection (b) by a covered survivor shall be adjudicated as either a miner’s or a survivor’s claim depending upon the type of claim pending at the time of the covered individual’s death. (d) Time of payment (1) Miner’s claim If a claim, filed under subsection (b) and adjudicated under subsection (c) as a miner’s claim, results in an award of benefits, benefits shall be payable beginning with the month of the filing of the denied claim that had included in its record a covered chest radiograph. (2) Survivor’s claim If a claim, filed under subsection (b) and adjudicated under subsection (c) as a survivor’s claim, results in an award of benefits, benefits shall be payable beginning with the month of the miner’s death. (e) Contributing impact The Secretary shall have the discretion to deny a new claim under subsection (b) in circumstances where the party opposing such claim establishes through clear and convincing evidence that a covered chest radiograph did not contribute to the decision to deny benefits in all prior claims filed by the covered individual or the covered survivor. (f) Limitation on filing of new claims A new claim for benefits may be filed under subsection (b) only if the original claim was finally denied by a district director, an administrative law judge, or the Benefits Review Board established under section 21(b) of the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act ( 33 U.S.C. 921(b) B Reports To improve the administration of benefits under the Black Lung Benefits Act 113. Strategy to reduce delays in adjudication (a) In general Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Labor shall submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate and the Committee on Education and the Workforce and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives a comprehensive strategy to reduce the backlog of cases pending on such date of enactment before the Office of Administrative Law Judges of the Department of Labor. (b) Contents of strategy The strategy under this section shall provide information relating to— (1) the current and targeted pendency for each category of cases before the Office of Administrative Law Judges of the Department of Labor; (2) the number of administrative law judges, attorney advisors supporting such judges, support staff, and other resources necessary to achieve and maintain the targeted pendency for each category of such cases; (3) the necessary resources to improve efficiency and effectiveness, such as equipment for video conferences, training, use of reemployed annuitants, and administrative reforms; (4) the impact of sequestration, furloughs, and the Federal Government shutdown, which occurred from October 1 to October 16, 2013, on increasing administrative burdens and the backlog of cases pending before such office; and (5) with respect to claims filed under the Black Lung Benefits Act ( 30 U.S.C. 901 et seq. (c) Consultation In preparing such strategy, the Secretary of Labor shall consult with organizations that have ongoing interactions with the Office of Administrative Law Judges of the Department of Labor, including organizations that represent parties in cases under the Black Lung Benefits Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act ( 33 U.S.C. 901 et seq. 114. GAO report on black lung program (a) In general Not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House of Representatives a report on any barriers to health care faced by coal miners with pneumoconiosis. (b) Contents The report required under subsection (a) shall include— (1) an assessment of possible barriers to health care under the Black Lung Benefits Act (30 U.S.C. 901 et seq.) and the degree to which any barriers impact the ability of miners with legitimate medical needs, particularly such miners in rural areas, to access treatment for pneumoconiosis; (2) recommendations necessary to address issues, if any, relating to patient access to care under such Act; and (3) an evaluation of whether the benefit payments authorized under such Act, as amended by this Act, are sufficient to meet the expenses of disabled miners, surviving spouses, dependents, and other family members entitled to receive benefits under the Black Lung Benefits Act. II Standard for respirable dust concentration 201. Standard for respirable dust concentration Section 202 of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 ( 30 U.S.C. 842 (i) Reports (1) Retrospective study (A) In general Beginning on August 1, 2021, the Secretary shall conduct a retrospective study evaluating data collected using continuous personal dust monitors to determine whether to— (i) lower the applicable standard for respirable dust concentration to protect the health of miners; (ii) increase the frequency for taking samples of respirable dust concentration, using continuous personal dust monitors; (iii) modify the engineering controls and work practices used by mine operators to comply with the applicable standard for respirable dust concentration; and (iv) convert samples taken for shifts that are greater than 8 hours to an 8-hour equivalent concentration to more accurately assess the conditions of miners working on longer shifts. (B) Completion deadline By August 1, 2022, the Secretary shall complete the study required by subparagraph (A) and report the findings of such study to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House of Representatives. (2) Subsequent studies By August 1, 2025, and every 3 years thereafter, the Secretary shall conduct a new study as described in paragraph (1)(A) and report, by not later than one year after the commencement of the study, the findings of such study to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House of Representatives. (3) Revised standards If any report of the Secretary under this subsection concludes that the applicable standard for respirable dust concentration should be lowered to protect the health of miners, or that the incidence of pneumoconiosis among coal miners in the United States, as reported by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, has not been reduced from such incidence prior to the implementation of the most recent applicable standard for respirable dust concentration, the Secretary shall, consistent with the requirements of this section and section 101, accordingly revise such standard and any applicable sampling or testing procedures not later than 24 months after the publication of such report of the Secretary under this subsection. . III Establishing the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs 301. Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (a) Establishment There shall be established, in the Department of Labor, an Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (referred to in this section as the Office (b) Director (1) In general The Office shall be directed by a Director for the Office of Workers' Compensation (referred to in this title as the Director (2) Duties The Director shall carry out all duties carried out by the Director for the Office of Workers' Compensation as of the day before the date of enactment of this Act. (c) Functions The functions of the Office on and after the date of enactment of this Act shall include the functions of the Office on the day before the date of enactment of this Act, including all of its personnel, assets, authorities, and liabilities. (d) References to Bureau of Employees' Compensation Reference in any other Federal law, Executive order, reorganization plan, rule, regulation, or delegation of authority, or any document of or relating to the Bureau of Employees' Compensation with regard to functions carried out by the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs, shall be deemed to refer to the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs. IV Severability 401. Severability If any provision of this Act, or an amendment made by this Act, or the application of such provision to any person or circumstance, is held to be invalid, the remainder of this Act, or an amendment made by this Act, or the application of such provision to other persons or circumstances, shall not be affected.

Summary: Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014 - Amends the Black Lung Benefits Act to revise requirements with regard to miners' claims for pneumoconiosis (black lung) benefits. Requires a mine operator to deliver within 21 days a complete copy of the examining physician's report to any miner required to submit to a medical examination regarding his or her respiratory or pulmonary condition. Directs the Secretary of Labor to establish an attorneys' fee payment program to pay attorneys' fees of up to $4,500 to the attorneys of prevailing parties on a qualifying black lung benefit claim. Establishes an irrebuttable presumption that a miner is totally disabled due to black lung disease, that the miner's death was due to black lung, or that at the time of death the miner was totally disabled by black lung disease if a chest radiograph, biopsy, autopsy, or other medically accepted test or procedure has diagnosed such miner with complicated black lung or progressive massive fibrosis. Allows a party to rebut this presumption only in cases where: the miner was employed for 15 years or more in one or more coal mines (including surface mines), there is a negative chest radiograph, other evidence demonstrates the existence of a totally disabling respiratory or pulmonary impairment, but no part of the miner's respiratory or pulmonary impairment was caused by black lung disease. Revises requirements for the payment of benefits to miners (including their dependents) totally disabled by black lung disease. Authorizes black lung clinics to use a portion of their federal funding to assist miners, surviving spouses, dependents, and other family members in the filing of black lung benefit claims. Prohibits any claimant, physician, operator, duly authorized agent of such operator, or employee of an insurance carrier, subject to certain civil and criminal penalties, from: knowingly and willfully making a false statement or misrepresentation in obtaining or denying benefits, or threatening or knowingly misleading anyone participating in a proceeding regarding such benefits. Requires the Secretary, upon request, to give a claimant the opportunity to substantiate a claim for benefits through a complete pulmonary evaluation of the miner that includes an initial qualified physician's report and, if certain conditions are met, any supplemental medical evidence developed after the report. Requires the Director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to establish in NIOSH a pilot program to establish B Reader Panels to assure accurate International Labor Organization classifications for chest radiographs in black lung disease cases where there is a factual dispute regarding a diagnosis of complicated black lung or progressive massive fibrosis. Directs the Secretary, in coordination with NIOSH, to establish a program to educate district directors, claims examiners, administrative law judges and supporting attorney advisors, and Benefits Review Board members about medical evidence relevant to black lung benefit claims. Revises black lung eligibility requirements to replace the terms "wife" and "widow" with "spouse" and "surviving spouse." Allows a covered miner or survivor to file a claim for black lung benefits within one year after enactment of this Act if the claim was been denied before enactment of this Act. Requires adjudication of the claim on its merits and excludes consideration of any negative chest radiograph for simple black lung disease, complicated black lung disease, or progressive massive fibrosis. Directs the Secretary to report to Congress a strategy to reduce the backlog of black lung cases pending before the Office of Administrative Law Judges of the Department of Labor. Directs the Government Accountability Office to report to Congress on any barriers to health care faced by coal miners with black lung disease. Amends the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 to direct the Secretary to conduct a retrospective study evaluating data collected using continuous dust monitors to determine whether to lower the applicable standard for respirable dust concentration for miners, among other possible actions. Establishes in the Department of Labor an Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP) (codifying the existing establishment of OWCP in the Department of Labor.)