Opinion ID: 537072
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 6

Heading: Appropriate Procedural Requirements For New Claims

Text: 30 The judges on the Board suggested several differing methods for dealing with second claims filed more than one year after the denial of a first claim. On rehearing en banc, the majority held that ALJ hearing or review was not necessary or even allowed. Other judges suggested differing roles for the deputy commissioner, the ALJ, and the Board. We hold that the Longshore Act and the black lung regulations create only a preliminary issue for consideration and no unique procedure for adjudication of second claims where modification is no longer available. Thus, we conclude that second claims for benefits filed more than one year after denial of an initial claim must be treated procedurally very similarly to any other claim. We therefore reject the bifurcated approach adopted by the Board and hold that a deputy commissioner must determine simultaneously whether (1) there has been a material change in condition, and (2) whether the claimant is entitled to benefits. 4 After such determinations by the deputy commissioner, a claimant is entitled to a hearing before an ALJ to examine both issues de novo. Finally, review on the merits of the ALJ's decision by the Board and the appropriate court of appeals is to be made available.