SIGN and SHARE the Ban Asbestos Without Loopholes or Exemptions Petition
S.2072 – Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2017
Updated on January 22, 2018
On November 16, 2017, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW) announced that U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt will testify before the committee on January 30, 2018.
This notice comes shortly after Pruitt testified before the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce on December 7, 2017 (watch full hearing here). ADAO had the opportunity to attend the hearing and watch as Pruitt was pressed by Congressman Pallone on our country’s continued asbestos use, the alarming chemical industry influence in the EPA, the progress (or lack thereof) on TSCA implementation, and other areas of deep concern. We are pleased to share that the work of ADAO, and all of you, was recognized during Congressman Pallone’s questioning of Pruitt.
According to Senator Barrasso, the upcoming hearing will “give senators the chance to hear about the important work being done at the agency to protect America’s air, land, and water.” As Pruitt said in the house meeting, “I think the primary issues what you raised earlier which is the disposal issue I think is very valid and something we need to look at going forward.” We look forward to learning what steps the agency is taking to make our country a safer place for all. More details for the hearing will be made available in the coming weeks.
ADAO urges the U.S. Senate EPW Committee to ask EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt during the hearing to reiterate that there is no safe or controlled use of asbestos. There is global consensus – asbestos is a known carcinogen and there is no safe level of exposure. Presently, the EPA allows for asbestos to be imported and used. We are deeply concerned that the 2017 EPA risk evaluation document excludes asbestos legacy use and the Libby Amphibole. Help us bring these issues to attention by signing our petition to Ban Asbestos Without Loopholes or Exemptions.
ADAO vows to remain a stakeholder at the table and will continue to update and educate our community – stay tuned! Your continued support and public voice become more invaluable each day.
With grave concern,
Linda