This bill seeks to amend and clarify the provisions of West Virginia Code 23-4-15 regarding the filing of occupational pneumoconiosis claims. Specifically, it introduces new language stating that the time limitations for filing such claims do not restrict a claimant's ability to obtain an evaluation from the Occupational Pneumoconiosis Board. The bill maintains the existing timeframes for filing compensation applications for occupational pneumoconiosis and other occupational diseases, which are set at three years from the last exposure or diagnosis, and two years for dependents in the case of death.

The proposed amendment emphasizes that while there are strict deadlines for filing compensation claims, these deadlines do not apply to the process of obtaining evaluations from the Occupational Pneumoconiosis Board. This change aims to ensure that claimants can seek necessary evaluations without being hindered by the time constraints associated with filing for compensation. Overall, the bill is designed to enhance the rights of individuals affected by occupational pneumoconiosis by providing clearer guidelines on the evaluation process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 23-4-15