39-73-106. Investigation of applications. (1) Whenever the department of labor and industry under this chapter receives an application for a payment, an investigation and record shall be promptly made of the validity of the claim. The object of such investigation shall be to ascertain whether or not the applicant is entitled to a payment under the provisions of this chapter and such other information as may be required by the rules of the department. The investigation of such applicant shall be conducted by representatives of the department. The physicians or physician designated by the department, as herein provided, shall constitute an examining board for such clinical, pathological, x-ray, and roentgen examinations as in the opinion of the examining board may be necessary to determine whether or not the applicant has silicosis, as herein defined. A certified report of such examination from the examining board of physicians or physician must be attached to the investigation report.

(2) Upon the completion of such investigation, the department shall determine whether or not the applicant is entitled to a payment under this chapter. The department shall then notify the applicant of its decision.