Renewed interest in a legislative ban on imports and use of asbestos in the U.S.Renewed interest in a legislative ban on imports and use of asbestos in the U.S.
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was used in thousands of U.S. products before the dangers became fully known. Due to its heat-resistant quality, it was used in products such as insulation for pipes and factory equipment, as well as in floor tiles, building materials, vehicle brakes and clutches. It was extensively used in factories and plants in western Pennsylvania. Asbestos exposure causes mesothelioma, lung cancer and other cancers.
Mesothelioma and other cancers caused by asbestos exposure have a long latency period. It can take 20 to 60 years after exposure for an individual to develop an asbestos-related disease. Unfortunately, there is no cure for mesothelioma which often results in death within 12 months of a diagnosis.
The mining, import, use and sale of asbestos has been banned in 62 countries. In the U.S., asbestos use is highly regulated but not banned. In November 2022, a Congressional bill, the Ban Asbestos Now Act, was introduced in Congress. The bill would ban the importation and use of asbestos in the U.S. It is the most comprehensive asbestos ban legislation to appear before Congress in more than 30 years. The bill has not yet been passed, but proponents of the bill are hopeful that it will be addressed in the next legislative session.
Although a ban on asbestos use in the United States would not end all asbestos exposure, it would be a starting point. Until asbestos is safely removed from all plants, factories, schools and homes, there will continue to be a risk of exposure that could lead to the development of an asbestos-related disease.
The attorneys at Caroselli Beachler & Coleman have handled asbestos litigation for 50 years. Caroselli Beachler & Coleman’s founding partner, Bill Caroselli, tried the first asbestos case in Western Pennsylvania in the mid-1970s. Today, our team of lawyers, including senior partner Craig E. Coleman, continue to advocate for those injured as a result of exposure to asbestos. If you, a family member or friend have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer or any asbestos-related disease, please contact us at 1-800-222-8816.
CAROSELLI BEACHLER & COLEMAN, LLC
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