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As we enter the second half of 2026, the fight to end asbestos exposure has made significant progress. While the science is stronger than ever, the legal, regulatory, and legislative battles continue. ADAO remains steadfast in its mission to prevent exposure, protect public health, and ensure that every decision is grounded in science and the voices of those most affected. In that spirit, ADAO strongly supports the recent demand by 61 Members of the U.S. House of Representatives for the immediate removal of more than 35,000 cubic yards of demolition debris from the former White House East Wing that was deposited at East Potomac National Park.
We have been seeking the same answers for months. On October 23, 2025, ADAO wrote to the White House requesting information about asbestos identification, abatement, transportation, and disposal following the demolition of the White House East Wing. When those questions went unanswered, ADAO continued pursuing the facts, ultimately filing a lawsuit seeking records related to asbestos identification, abatement, and compliance with federal safety requirements during the demolition.
Part 1: Defending Stronger Protections in Court
June marked another important milestone as ADAO returned to the Fifth Circuit to defend its standing to seek stronger protections under EPA's Part 1 chrysotile asbestos rule. Supplemental declarations and briefing demonstrated that ADAO members, partners, and allies continue to face ongoing asbestos exposure and reinforced the need for a stronger final rule that fully protects workers, families, first responders, and communities. No one should be exposed to asbestos simply by living their lives or helping others.
Part 2: Americans Cannot Afford More Delays
EPA also announced that it is delaying its proposed Part 2 asbestos rule until 2027. Because Part 2 addresses legacy asbestos, asbestos-contaminated talc, and the remaining regulated asbestos fiber types, this delay postpones critical protections for millions of Americans. ADAO will continue urging EPA to move forward without further delay and finalize a comprehensive, science-based rule that protects public health for everyone.
At the same time, ADAO continues to advocate for lasting legislative solutions. Following the troubling recall of asbestos-contaminated children's toys, ADAO issued an open letter to Congress urging passage of the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now (ARBAN) Act. Ten years after the Lautenberg Chemical Safety Act modernized TSCA, asbestos remains legal in the United States. Congress must finish the job.
Education remains central to ADAO's mission. If you missed the June webinar, Asbestos at a Crossroads: The Legal, Regulatory, and Legislative Battle to End Asbestos Exposure, the recording, presentation materials, and speaker resources are now available. These timely resources provide valuable insights into the rapidly evolving legal, regulatory, and legislative landscape.
Looking ahead, registration is now open for ADAO's 21st Annual Asbestos Awareness & Prevention Conference, taking place September 25–26 in Washington, D.C. This year's conference will bring together leading experts, patients, advocates, researchers, healthcare professionals, attorneys, and policymakers to explore the latest advancements in prevention, treatment, advocacy, and justice. Early registration is encouraged, and we hope to see you there.
ADAO is also honored to participate in the inaugural Global Mesothelioma Education Forum on July 2, a free international webinar bringing together leading experts, patients, caregivers, researchers, and advocates from around the world. Held one day before the United Kingdom's Mesothelioma Action Day, this global event will showcase the latest advances in mesothelioma research, treatment, patient care, and international collaboration. We encourage our community to register and join this important worldwide conversation because everyone deserves access to trusted, lifesaving information. In support of that commitment, ADAO has also curated a comprehensive Mesothelioma Resource Page that is freely available to the public.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to ADAO's mission. Whether you participate in our educational programs, engage with policymakers, share our resources, or help raise awareness, your support strengthens our collective efforts. Together, we will continue building a future where no one suffers or dies from an asbestos-caused disease.
With gratitude,
Linda Reinstein
President & CEO
Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO)
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