There’s been a lot of conversation lately about the Environmental Protection Agency’s asbestos ban. Originally announced last year, the rule bans ongoing uses of chrysotile asbestos – the only form of asbestos that was as of 2023 still imported into the United States.

After some uncertainty with the change in administration, from President Joseph Biden to President Donald Trump, the ban is now moving forward. It was President Biden’s EPA that announced the ban in March 2024. Then, last month, President Trump’s EPA announced plans to reconsider the ban.

The plans to reconsider were reversed, and the ban is to be kept as is.

And that’s a very good thing.

At BCBH Law, we talk a lot about safety, responsibility, and accountability. We’ve seen firsthand how exposure to harmful substances like asbestos can devastate families. It’s not just a legal issue; it’s a deeply personal one. So when something like this makes the news, we’re paying attention.

For decades, asbestos was used in construction, insulation, and countless industrial materials. It’s strong, it’s heat-resistant, and it’s incredibly dangerous.

Mesothelioma – a rare but aggressive cancer – is caused exclusively by asbestos exposure, and its effects can be devastating for patients and their families.

That’s just one of the serious illnesses linked to asbestos. There are others: lung cancer, a lung scarring disease, and even ovarian cancer.

These aren’t rare consequences. There are tens of thousands of asbestos diseases diagnosed every year in the United States. They are well-documented, preventable outcomes that have impacted entire communities across the country.

The decision to ban asbestos isn’t just about changing policy – it’s about saving lives. Chrysotile asbestos is the most common type of asbestos. It was the type used for decades in construction, automobile manufacturing, and more. It’s the type still used today in chlorine production.

Banning this mineral will prevent other cases of cancer – and save lives. This decision is about protecting future generations from the slow, silent harm of exposure. And it’s a reminder that regulation, when grounded in science and public health, matters.

This isn’t just a win for public health advocates. It’s a win for workers, homeowners and anyone who’s ever trusted that the materials in their schools, homes or job sites wouldn’t harm them. It’s a step toward greater accountability, and a sign that the system is still capable of doing what it’s supposed to: protect people.

At BCBH Law, we remain committed to standing with those affected by asbestos exposure. If you or someone you know has been impacted, contact us for a free consultation. You’re not alone. We’re here to help navigate what comes next with clarity, compassion, and commitment.

Why the Asbestos Ban Matters — and Why It’s a Win for Public Health