House Introduces Bill to Ban Asbestos
The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization, the largest organization in the United States dedicated to serving as the voice of asbestos victims, on Sept. 16 applauded the U.S. House of Representatives and the Subcommittee on Environment and Hazardous Materials for introducing H.R. 6903, the "Bruce Vento Ban Asbestos and Prevent Mesothelioma Act of 2008."
The bill, introduced by Chair Gene Green (D-Texas), will amend the Toxic Substances Control Act to reduce the health risks posed by asbestos-containing products and help support public education programs.
The organization, after working with Congress for more than four years on developing a bill, strongly encourages representatives to quickly move it through to the President for his signature, according to a press release.
"As we remember the tragedy of 9-11, thousands still suffer from the irreversible damage caused from asbestos exposure. An asbestos ban prohibiting its importation, manufacturing, processing, and distribution is absolutely necessary and long overdue," stated Linda Reinstein, co-founder and executive director of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization.
The occurrence of asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis, continues to increase. Studies estimate that during the next decade, 100,000 victims in the United States will die of an asbestos related disease – equaling 30 deaths per day.
The organization was founded by asbestos victims and their families,