Senate Designates National Asbestos Awareness Week

The U.S. Senate unanimously passed a bipartisan resolution designating April 1-7 as National Asbestos Awareness Week, led by Senators Jeff Merkley of Oregon and Steve Daines of Montana.[1][2] The measure, S.Res. 666, emphasizes preventing asbestos exposure—a known carcinogen with no safe level—and promoting education to protect public health.[5][7] Co-sponsored by Senators Dick Durbin, Edward Markey, Alex Padilla, and Cory Booker, it passed without amendment on March 26.[1][2]

This marks the 21st such annual resolution, building on decades of advocacy by groups like the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) to highlight asbestos risks in older buildings, workplaces, and homes.[3][7] Asbestos causes deadly diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis, claiming up to 40,000 American lives yearly despite bans on most uses.[6][13] Advocates stress that exposure remains preventable through awareness and policy reforms, echoing the U.S. Surgeon General's warnings.[7]

For Milwaukee residents, this hits close to home amid the city's aging housing stock and industrial legacy, where pre-1990 structures may harbor asbestos during renovations or demolitions.[1][6] Thousands of Wisconsinites, including veterans and factory workers, face ongoing risks from past exposures, making early detection and safe abatement critical to preventing family tragedies.[13]

During the upcoming week, expect public campaigns, health screenings, and calls for a full U.S. asbestos ban to build momentum for stronger protections.[4][12]