Swain, Karabinchak & Timberlake Bill Banning Sale and Distribution of Products Containing Asbestos Now Law

(TRENTON) – Asbestos is a real and often overlooked danger in many products for sale in the United States, taking the lives of as many as 15,000 Americans every year. Assembly Democrats Lisa Swain, Robert Karabinchak and Britnee Timberlake bill to protect the health of New Jerseyans by prohibiting the sale and distribution of products containing asbestos was signed into law Friday by the Governor.

The new law is in response to a recent decision made by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics to allow for the manufacture of new products containing asbestos on a case-by-case basis. Overwhelming evidence shows that asbestos exposure increases the risk of developing lung diseases, including lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis.

“There is absolutely no reason why any New Jerseyans should be at risk of asbestos exposure,” said Swain (D-Bergen/Passaic). “While the current Administration in Washington may be okay with rolling back environmental health standards that protect so many Americans, here in New Jersey we are not, and this bill ensures we will stay proactive in protecting our residents.”

The new law (formerly bill A-4416) would bar any individual from selling or disseminating any product which contains asbestos in New Jersey. Anyone who violates the tenets of the bill would be subject to a fine of up to $2,500. The law will also allow the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to seek an injunction against the violator.

“It is our responsibility to best protect the health of our residents,” said Karabinchak (D-Middlesex). “It is time we say no to this outdated material in New Jersey. No one should ever be exposed to harmful toxins.”

“It makes no sense to allow any unnecessary risk to the residents of New Jersey,” said Timberlake (D-Essex/Passaic). “We can’t allow the interests of big companies and corporations supersede the health of our constituents.”

The legislation was unanimously approved by the Assembly, 76-0 in March.