Proposal to Ban Asbestos in the US forwarded by Senate Environment and Public Works Committee

A meeting was held by The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee (EPW) in which they reviewed their plan to propose asbestos ban in the US. Senator Patty Murray (D Wash) is going to handle the asbestos ban legislation. This ban aims to amend the Toxic Substances Control Act and in turn prohibit the US from importing, manufacturing, processing and distributing asbestos in any form or in any product.

In a statement issued by Senator Murray’s office, it has been mentioned that US is currently importing more than $100 millions worth asbestos containing products yearly. These products include brake pads, cement pipes and floor tiles that are likely to harm people installing and working with them.

Inhalation of asbestos is known to cause a very deadly cancer called mesothelioma. Asbestos inhalation can also cause other diseases and illnesses that include lung scarring and asbestosis among others.

It has been learned that the EPW will hear testimonies from numerous health professionals about the health complications caused by asbestos and how these diseases can be prevented. Senator Murray plans to address the panel regarding the usage of asbestos in the US and the need to ban this toxic.

Senator Murray’s bills also calls for public awareness campaigns and launching health care programs regarding the deadly effects of mesothelioma on human health. He has also demanded a federal survey of asbestos related diseases and a national network of treatment centers for mesothelioma patients and asbestos affected patients.