The UMWA has been lobbying a long time for just this kind of action, and while these changes do not go as far as we might have liked, we welcome any positive movement that helps level the playing field. Currently, when a coal company disputes a victim's black lung claim, it hires doctor after doctor, expert after expert, to try and find fault with the claim. This process usually requires the victim to find his or her own doctor or expert at an enormous cost to counter any negative findings by the company's doctors and experts.
Most victims become frustrated, or broke, trying to do so.
Two reports on each disputed issue will definitely make the process more even. Roberts said the modified DOL regulations also help the victim by placing more emphasis on his or her treating physician's opinion and by inserting language that confirms the UMWA's long-held contention that black lung disease does progress as the victim ages. He added that he expects even further movement in the Bush administration. We are fully prepared to hold Mr. Bush to his word.