With the U.S. Congress closer than ever to resolving the asbestos litigation crisis, the Aug. 16 Chicago Tribune editorial “X-raying an asbestos quagmire” drove home why legislation is an absolute necessity.
The appalling findings in the recent study by Johns Hopkins researchers (cited in the editorial) provide just the latest proof of the problem.
The good news is that after 10 attempts spanning 25 years, the U.S. Congress is closer than ever to legislating a solution.
The bill under consideration would eliminate fraudulent claims and end the abuses in the legal system, while assuring that victims receive fair and efficient compensation.
But with only weeks left in this session, time is running short.
Congress must quickly find a way to bridge the gaps and pass a bill that provides a lasting solution for all involved, avoids additional bankruptcies and preserves precious resources for true victims.
Absent legislation, the problem will surely worsen.
