The U.S. House Judiciary Committee approved legislation that would set up a new government agency to speed legal relief to the thousands of people sickened by exposure to asbestos. The bill now goes to the House floor. It is backed by business groups and companies facing lawsuits over asbestos exposure, some of which occurred three and four decades ago. There are 200,000 cases pending. The measure is opposed by trial lawyers and environmental and consumer groups that contend the legislation would deprive victims of their legal rights to compensation.
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral once commonly used in insulation and fireproofing material.
The inhaling of asbestos fibers can cause respiratory ailments. Under the bill, claimants would have to go to the proposed Office of Asbestos Compensation in the Justice Department, which would determine if they are medically eligible. Those declared eligible would receive a settlement offer within a month, with the money coming from a fund paid for by defendant companies. The claimant could either accept the settlement, proceed to an administrative court for a ruling within 90 days or return to the traditional route of a lawsuit in a state or federal court. Runners, hunters, skiers, utility workers and others wear them to add insulation, to improve circulation, to prevent chafing or to provide extra leg support.