We have been encouraging everyone to support the Bruce Vento Ban Asbestos and Prevent Mesothelioma Act of 2007, which was introduced in the House of Representatives last August, and which has been in the House Subcommittee on Health since that time. This is H.R. 3339. However, last week, on Sept. 15, a new bill was introduced, H.R. 6903, which has taken the place of the earlier bill.

H.R. 6903, which was sponsored by Rep. Raymond Green (D-TX), is being called the Bruce Vento Ban Asbestos and Prevent Mesothelioma Act of 2008. Its purpose is stated as “to amend the Toxic Substances Control Act to reduce the health risks posed by asbestos-containing products, and for other purposes.” It is co-sponsored by Rep. Betty McCollum (D-MIN), who sponsored the 2007 version of the bill.

The new legislation has the support of organizations including the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization. It has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, of which Rep. Green is a member.

You can read the full text of the bill online.

It is vital that this legislation not be allowed to linger in committee for another year, as more people continue to be exposed to asbestos and die from mesothelioma. Please contact your Representative TODAY and ask them to support the Bruce Vento Ban Asbestos legislation.