I remember well the moon landing fifty years ago this summer. Our leaders challenged Americans to accomplish something, to be the most innovative and competitive nation – and we put men on the moon in less than a decade. The moon landing was more than just a symbolic moment; it positioned us PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon lawmakers are pushing for a nationwide ban of asbestos – a known carcinogen that kills thousands of people in America every year.
Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici and Senator Jeff Merkley introduced a new act — that would ban asbestos entirely in the U.S.
The lawmakers met with community members in Portland Thursday to discuss the issue.
Rep Bonamici tells KATU News that part of the struggle in banning asbestos is fighting the companies that make money selling it.
“It’s been challenging to ban asbestos because of the interests of the chemical industry, but we have to join the rest of the world. All the other countries that have said this is too big of a risk to take. The health impacts are significant,” said Bonamici.
The congresswoman has introduced the act in the house, and hopes to get it a hearing soon. Both she and Merkley say they’re hoping to get bipartisan support for the ban.
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