Do Not Reopen or Delay the Asbestos Ban

I’m writing to express my strong opposition to the EPA’s recent decision to revisit the Biden-era ban on chrysotile asbestos. This move is reckless, unjustifiable, and dangerous to public health. Asbestos is a proven killer—there is no safe exposure level, and it causes over 40,000 deaths annually in the U.S. alone. The 2024 EPA rule was long overdue, making the U.S. finally catch up to over 50 countries that have banned asbestos entirely. Reopening that rule for a 30-month review, especially under pressure from industry lobbyists, is a betrayal of public trust. The arguments for delay are weak. Most chlorine plants already use asbestos-free technology, and the EPA built transition timelines into the rule. Workplace protections are not an acceptable substitute for a full ban—especially for such a deadly carcinogen. The EPA’s job is to protect people, not appease chemical lobbyists. I urge you to reject any attempt to weaken or delay the asbestos ban. Lives are at stake. The science is clear. The ban must stand.