The gist

This bill helps families of coal miners who died from black lung disease win benefit claims faster. It shifts the legal burden onto coal companies and covers survivors' legal costs.

Who wins, who loses

• Wins: Widows and families of coal miners in Appalachia; black lung attorneys representing survivors.
• Loses: Coal mine operators, who face tougher rebuttal standards and must reimburse the fund when claims succeed.

What it does

• Lets companies defeat a claim only by proving black lung played zero role in the miner's death.
• Adds a new presumption: if a miner was totally disabled by black lung, death is presumed caused by it.
• Creates a payment program within 180 days covering up to $4,500 in attorney fees and $3,000 in medical costs per claim.
• Restores pre-1981 coverage for miners totally disabled at death and orders a Government Accountability Office (GAO) study on benefit adequacy.

Why should I care?

Supporters say black lung is surging again in young Appalachian miners, and survivors deserve relief from years-long claim fights that drain families financially. Critics argue the stricter rebuttal standard unfairly burdens coal operators and could raise industry costs in already struggling regions. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.