Black Lung Association Urges Congressman Hal Rogers to Support Increased Miner Disability Benefits
The Black Lung Association of Southeastern Kentucky has formally requested U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers to co-sponsor the Support Our Miners Act. This bill, introduced by Democrats earlier this summer, aims to significantly increase federal disability benefits for miners suffering from black lung disease. The association highlights that the monthly benefits currently received by miners have not kept pace with inflation since 1969, leading to a substantial erosion of their purchasing power for essential needs like gas, groceries, and utilities. An analysis by the Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center and Appalachian Voices indicates that current benefits are 30% lower than their 1969 equivalent. The group emphasizes the urgent need for support, especially given the rising rates of severe black lung disease among veteran underground coal miners in Central Appalachia, often linked to exposure to silica dust. 
