39-73-101 MCA
The department administers a program to determine eligibility and pay benefits to those suffering from silicosis.
Silicosis is a fibrotic condition of the lungs due to the inhalation of silica dust. Most of the claims we have are from former Butte miners. Payments are made to those with silicosis, which results in total disability, rendering it impossible for the person to be gainfully employed. Claimants or their surviving spouses (as long as they do not remarry) are paid $350 per month for life.
