EPA Issues New Updates to Asbestos Regulations

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently issued new guidance rules for asbestos as part of the latest updates to the reformed Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), which could potentially have a large impact on future asbestos production in the United States. The new rules, referred to as significant new use rule (SNUR), would allow the agency to prevent new uses of asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral directly linked to deadly cancers such as mesothelioma.

If adopted, the proposed rule would require the EPA’s approval before any products containing asbestos could be manufactured, imported, or processed in the U.S. and would further grant the agency the authority to prohibit or limit the use of asbestos. While the proposed SNUR is encouraging for many activists, it still remains the first instance the EPA has proposed such an action and those same groups remain skeptical that the agency will follow through with the proposal.

“These actions provide the American people with transparency and an opportunity to comment on how EPA plans to evaluate the ten chemicals undergoing risk evaluation, select studies, and use the best available science to ensure chemicals in the marketplace are safe,” said EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt. “At the same time, we are moving forward to take important, unprecedented action on asbestos.”

Once commonly used in a variety of commercial, industrial, and military applications for his heat resistant properties and ability to be formed into any shape, asbestos has been heavily regulated by the federal government since the 1970s. However, hundreds of thousands of innocent people have been exposed to asbestos since before and after these regulations took effect, with many developing a rare and deadly form of cancer known as mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma commonly affects the thin linings of tissue surrounding vital organs like the heart, lungs, and abdomen and often leaves patients with diminished treatment options due to its long latency period before symptoms present themselves. While researchers and doctors around the world are working tirelessly on new ways to fight the disease, there is still no definitive cure for mesothelioma at this current time.

Although nothing can undo the harm caused by a mesothelioma diagnosis, patients and their families can recover vital compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and the pain and suffering of the illness by filing an asbestos cancer lawsuit. By speaking to an experienced Arizona mesothelioma lawyer and filing a mesothelioma lawsuit, victims can hold asbestos companies responsible for corporate greed and send a message to these companies that indifference to public safety will not be tolerated in our society.

Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyer

If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment to help you and your family live a more comfortable life.