Widow Fails to Link Occupational Pneumoconiosis to Worker's Death

The West Virginia Supreme Court upheld the denial of a widow’s claim for death benefits, finding occupational pneumoconiosis was not a material contributing cause of her husband’s death. Case: Harris v. Pine Ridge Coal Co., No. 23-615, 10/30/2024, published. Facts: Carl Harris worked for Pine Ridge Coal Co. He filed several workers’ compensation claims between 1985 and 2002 after he was diagnosed with occupational pneumoconiosis. Harris received multiple permanent partial disability awards totaling 30%. Harris was also diagnosed with several other health conditions, includ...