Emergency Declaration in Libby Montana
admin | Jun 17, 2009 | Comments 1
The Envirionmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced that it has declared a “public health emergency” in Libby, Mont. Libby has had about 290 die, and nearly 2,000 become sickened from exposure to amphibole asbestos from a vermiculite mine located just outside of the town.
According to the EPA press release, this is the first time that the EPA has declared public health emergency.
The press release also states that:
During her Senate confirmation hearing, [EPA] Administrator [Lisa] Jackson committed to review the situation at the Libby asbestos site based on current site information, sound science and EPA’s legal authorities. As a result of her review, the Administrator has decided that conditions at the site present a significant threat to public health and that making a public health emergency determination is appropriate.
Exactly what information led Jackson to make the emergency declaration, and what specific actions will result from it are unclear. The press release addresses a high occurrence of asbestosis, a disease normally associated with long-term asbestos exposure, as one of the public health concerns in the area. The release does not mention mesothelioma, a disease that has been connected to short-term exposure to amphibole asbestos, as a concern.
To read in-depth coverage of this issue, click here.
PrintFiled Under: Breaking News Blog
I wonder if this means that my oxygen will be paid for? Well,since I was put on oxygen some 3to4 years ago,NOT ONE PENNY has been spent on me or my oxygen by Card/WR disGrace.I even filed medical bankruptcy due to what WR disGrace does not pay even thou they are responsible.I was turned down by Lamp for help and I even begged Sen Baucus to help me pay for the air I need and he too did nothing. Now as of May this year,between medicare and myself, I now own my oxygen machine but I could of bought 3 of these machines with what was paid for this one.Still no help from Libby.I suggest a investigation into where all these millions have gone because I know I am not the only one being left out on proper care by the ones who did this to us/me.How bout reimbursing me and all of us who got no help since 1999.How bout it.I just wish the people would be paid.Damn it.