Trump Administration Backs Off Plan to Delay Asbestos Ban

The Trump administration has dropped its plan to delay a ban on chrysotile asbestos, reversing efforts to challenge a 2024 rule introduced under President Biden. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency confirmed it won’t proceed with revising the ban, which marked the first major asbestos regulation in nearly a decade and was widely supported by health advocates.

Chrysotile asbestos, a known carcinogen still used in some U.S. industries, is banned in over 50 countries. Its fibers can cause deadly diseases like mesothelioma and lung cancer. Though its use is being phased out, some manufacturers have up to 12 years to comply. Legal challenges from industry groups continue, while public health experts warn that even low exposure remains hazardous—especially for workers dealing with older buildings where asbestos lingers.

09-07-2025