Lawyer Fees in Black Lung Cases: DOL Form Audit
Published Date: 9/29/2026
Notice
Summary
The Department of Labor is asking for public feedback on a form that helps decide if fees charged by representatives in Black Lung claims are fair and payable. This affects people involved in Black Lung claim cases and aims to keep fee approvals clear and fair. Comments are open until October 29, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up and help shape the process!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Form CM-972 decides representative fees
The Department of Labor is asking to use Form CM-972 to collect information that will be used to determine whether a representative's services and the amounts they charge can be paid under the Black Lung Benefits Act. This affects people involved in Black Lung claim cases, including claimants and the representatives who seek fee approval.
Estimated paperwork burden on respondents
The notice estimates 820 respondents and 820 total responses for this information collection (OMB Control Number 1240-0011), with a total estimated annual time burden of 574 hours and total estimated annual other costs of $340. DOL is seeking Office of Management and Budget approval for this collection for a three-year period.
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