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With the advent of the first Significant New Use Rule (SNUR) in years, the EPA ignited disputes about asbestos regulations all over the country. Known primarily for its role in causing pleural malignant mesothelioma, asbestos is a toxic mineral substance that can cause a wide range of cancers. However, it isn’t banned yet – and critics have been concerned that the SNUR would open the gateway to new asbestos uses.
Now, 15 State Attorneys General have joined a coalition to demand tougher rules on asbestos. By seeking to eliminate some of the current asbestos exemptions and reduce the chance of new asbestos uses, these state AGs and other public officials are hopeful that we could ultimately reduce thousands of mesothelioma deaths in the long term.
Why Is Asbestos Dangerous?
Asbestos uses have been heavily regulated ever since 1976, when the Toxic Substances Control Act was first passed by the United States Congress. By forcing companies to account for all uses of asbestos, and offering resources to help remove and extract remaining materials from old buildings, the EPA was instrumental to the fight against asbestos from the late 70’s onward.
However, after decades of using asbestos in everything from buildings to manufacturing applications to beauty products, millions of Americans still found themselves getting sick from mesothelioma and other dangerous cancers. Even today, the American Cancer Society estimates that more than 3,000 new mesothelioma cases are diagnosed every year.
Here are some of the most common historical causes of asbestos exposure:
- Living near a mine or otherwise contaminated site
- Working in construction, processing, manufacturing, or mining
- Serving in the military and/or living in a military base or ship
- Removing asbestos without proper hazard gear
- Using talcum powder products for cosmetic or hygiene purposes
Modifying the Toxic Substances Control Act
Arguing that the EPA should eliminate the asbestos use exemptions included in the 2018 SNUR, many State Attorneys General are now joining forces to hold the EPA accountable for this irresponsible shift in policy. The State AGs are also demanding that the EPA initiate a new rulemaking process that would help the TSCA gain valuable data about asbestos uses. Time will only tell if these efforts are successful in Washington.
In the meantime, our Florida mesothelioma lawyers can help if you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another form of cancer after asbestos exposure. We’ve been helping clients stand up for their rights since 1985, and we’re not afraid to face down major corporations or agencies that have acted negligently.
Frequently Asked Questions
01.
How do I know if I need a mesothelioma lawyer for my case?
If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma or suspect that you were exposed to asbestos in a work setting or through asbestos containing products, speaking with a mesothelioma lawyer can help clarify your legal rights. At Ferraro Law, we assess the details of your situation, identify companies responsible, and explain the legal process so you can determine if pursuing a mesothelioma claim aligns with your needs. This initial guidance provides a clear direction for mesothelioma victims seeking meaningful support.
02.
What can I expect from working with a mesothelioma law firm?
03.
Will I need to go to court if I’m seeking compensation for asbestos exposure?
04.
How long does asbestos litigation usually take?
05.
How can a mesothelioma law firm help me handle the financial burdens of my illness?
06.
How do I know if my asbestos exposure is connected to my mesothelioma diagnosis?
07.
Is it too late to file a mesothelioma claim if I was diagnosed years ago?
08.
What if I’m not sure which companies are responsible for my asbestos exposure?
09.
Can a mesothelioma law firm assist if my loved one passed away from asbestos-related illness?
10.
Can Ferraro Law handle my case if I live outside of Florida?
Absolutely. We represent clients nationwide. Our extensive experience in complex litigation and specialized claims means that we can effectively advocate for your rights, no matter where you live.
11.
Will hiring a mesothelioma lawyer add to my financial strain?
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When individuals and families face the challenges of mesothelioma and asbestos exposure—coping with complex treatments, escalating costs, and emotional strain—they turn to Ferraro Law for clarity, guidance, and steadfast support. Through meticulous case preparation, empathetic counsel, and strategic representation, our attorneys build compelling cases that secure meaningful settlements to cover medical expenses, provide financial relief, and offer a path toward stability during difficult times.
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Working with Daniel J. Di Matteo, Attorney and Partner at The Ferraro Law Firm was and is a life-changing forever experience. He is committed to a level of professionalism and attention to detail that is at the 100th percentile. Daniel handled everything with calmness, sensitivity and support that I needed through this difficult time. He always protected me and had my best interests. I am completely satisfied with the results.
If you need an attorney that operates at the highest level, that attorney is Daniel J. Di Matteo.
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Ferraro Law is wonderful and I am forever grateful to them. My attorney Daniel Di Matteo fought like a tiger for me against a multibillion dollar corporation and obtained a substantial settlement for me. This settlement is life changing for me. If you need an attorney call Ferraro Law and if you’re lucky Daniel will take your case.
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Not too long ago I picked up the phone and called the Ferraro Law Firm not quite knowing what to expect. From the moment I reached out, the team made me feel heard and taken care of — not just like another case walking through the door.
Nikki Hurtado was my first primary contact. After speaking with her I knew that I had picked the right firm. She walked me through the process in plain understandable language. Even after numerous calls, she never made me feel like I was asking too many questions, and I always felt confident that my case was in expert hands.
My litigator was Daniel Di Matteo. If there was ever anyone that you would want by your side in a court of law, it would be him. He was everything that you would want in an attorney—calm, cool, always prepared, communicative and most importantly–experienced. He knew everything that was going to happen before it occurred but was prepared for any contingency. He is a fantastic attorney.
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The professionalism of the entire team — from the attorneys to the support staff — was exceptional. Everyone I interacted with was kind, compassionate, and genuinely invested in my well-being, not just the outcome of my case.
And the outcome? Better than I could have hoped for. They fought hard on my behalf and secured a result that truly reflected the impact this injury had on my life.
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