Administrative Law Judge Has Authority to Reassign Liability, First Circuit Rules

PORTLAND, Maine - An administrative law judge did not exceed his scope of authority in reassigning liability when an asbestos-exposed pipefitter sought full disability benefits following an award of medical benefits under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, a federal circuit has ruled, affirming the Benefits Review Board's decision. Bath Iron Works Corporation v. Director, Office of Workers Compensation Programs, United States Department of Labor, et al., No. 00-1208 (1st Cir.).

In its April 5 decision, the First Circuit found that the administrative law judge had broad discretion to revisit already decided issues and correct mistakes of fact.

Benefit …