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This month is a stark reminder of why ADAO exists: to prevent asbestos exposure through litigation, legislative negotiation, science-based policy, and public education. Asbestos is not a legacy issue or a problem of the past; the risks remain for all Americans, regardless of geography, and so does the responsibility to act. Prevention requires vigilance, regulatory accountability, and you.
Great news! Senator Jeff Merkley will champion the 21st Senate Asbestos Awareness Week Resolution (April 1–7) again. Our Resolution serves as the foundation for Global Asbestos Awareness Week (GAAW). Senator Merkley’s leadership demonstrates that members of Congress remain willing to stand with us to prevent exposure to this known carcinogen and advance meaningful prevention policy.
February: ADAO’s Legal Advocacy: Defending Science, Enforcing the Law, and Advancing Prevention
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Issued a 60-day Notice of Intent to Sue after EPA failed to meet its TSCA deadline for a legacy asbestos risk management rule
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Inside EPA addressed reports that EPA refused delivery of ADAO’s certified notice, despite receiving the electronic version: a reminder that transparency and statutory process matter.
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Elevated concerns raised by DHS workers regarding legacy asbestos abatement at St. Elizabeth's West Campus in Washington, D.C.
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Presented at American University: “From K Street to Main Street: Negotiating Legislative Change”
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Presented at PACNY: “From The People’s House to Every House: Enforcement Gaps, Accountability, and the ARBAN Act in Asbestos Prevention”
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Published “Asbestos Basics: What You Need to Know About Health, Environment, Prevention, and Policy,” reinforcing science, environmental impact, and prevention strategies
March: Awareness, Engagement and Momentum
Here’s what’s in store:
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The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee legislative hearing is set to examine a discussion draft of the Toxic Substances Control Act Fee Reauthorization and Improvement Act of 2026 (streamed live) on March 4th.
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ADAO is participating in the Environmental Information Association National Conference and will present on March 12th with the presentation title: “Deja Vu in Public Health: Enforcement Failures, Accountability, and the Case for Asbestos Ban Legislation.”
- We are also recognizing International Women’s Day on March 8th and the leadership of women in advocacy, research, caregiving, and policy reform.
Looking Ahead to June — The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit will hear oral arguments in Texas Chemistry Council v. EPA. ADAO will defend the science, protect the rule, and advocate for strengthening it where necessary.
Prevention requires persistence and sustained engagement.
For more than 20 years, ADAO has worked to eliminate asbestos-caused diseases. The science is clear: There is no safe level of asbestos exposure, and prevention is the only cure. That’s why our strategy remains consistent: Defend science-based regulation, hold agencies accountable to statutory mandates, advance bipartisan solutions such as the ARBAN Act, and expand public access to accurate information.
We are deeply grateful to our 2026 Distinguished Sponsors for their continued leadership and support, which strengthens our education, advocacy, and policy work nationwide. We invite you to visit our sponsors’ pages to learn more about their commitment to prevention and accountability.
Nearly 40,000 Americans die each year from asbestos-related diseases. These deaths are preventable, but only if we act together.
Thank you for your unwavering support! Onward. Together.
Linda Reinstein, President & Co-Founder, Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO)
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