Eastern Associated Coal Corp. v. Director, Office of Workers' Compensation Programs Franklin E. Patrick

BUTZNER, Senior Circuit Judge:

Eastern Associated Coal Corporation appeals a decision of the Benefits Review Board imposing liability for benefits to Franklin E. Patrick, a federal mine inspector, pursuant to the Black Lung Benefits Act, 30 U.S.C. §§ 901-960 (1982). We affirm because Eastern, and not the federal government, is the most recent responsible mine operator to employ Patrick.

I

In August 1977, Patrick filed a claim for disability benefits. Patrick alleged that he was disabled due to pneumoconiosis. He had worked as a coal miner for 14 years between 1949 and 1971. He was an employee of…