This week, I am working with my colleagues across the aisle to raise awareness of the dangers of asbestos, and prevent what happened in Libby and Troy from occurring again. I cosponsored a Senate resolution designating the first week of April as National Asbestos Awareness Week.
We need to work together to protect the health Montanans across the state and shed a light on the serious medical implications of asbestos exposure. The resolution also urges the U.S. Surgeon General to warn and educate Americans about the risks of asbestos exposure.
Since W.R. Grace closed its Libby vermiculite mine in 1990, more than 200 residents have died and thousands more are suffering from asbestos-related diseases. Clean up efforts began in 2002 when Libby, Troy, and surrounding communities were placed on the EPA’s Superfund National Priorities List.
It can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years to develop symptoms of asbestos-related diseases, which continue to kill thousands of Americans each year.
I will continue to work to keep all Montanans safe.
Steve Daines
United States Senate
