Merkley Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Ban Asbestos

Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) introduced the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2026 (S. 5235) on Aug. 4 to ban the commercial and industrial use of asbestos, according to Safety+Health Magazine. The bill is co-sponsored by Sen. John Curtis (R-UT), chair of the Senate Chemical Safety, Waste Management, Environmental Justice and Regulatory Oversight Subcommittee. Merkley serves as ranking member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee.

Bill Provisions

The legislation would amend the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 to prohibit the manufacture and use of asbestos fibers used commercially. This includes chrysotile asbestos, the only known form of asbestos imported into the United States. The substance appears in aftermarket automotive brakes and linings, brake blocks, sheet gaskets, and other vehicle friction products.

Endorsements and Background

The bill is endorsed by the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization, American Public Health Association, Center for Environmental Health, Collegium Ramazzini, Environmental Information Association, Environmental Working Group, Federal Fire Fighters Joint Council, and International Association of Fire Fighters. It is named for Alan Reinstein, who died in 2006 at age 66 of mesothelioma. Linda Reinstein, his widow, serves as president and CEO of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization.

Prior Legislative Efforts

Similar bills were introduced in 2017 and 2023 but never advanced out of committee, according to Safety+Health Magazine. Merkley stated in a press release that the bipartisan bill is necessary to phase out all dangerous asbestos fibers and provide stronger protections for consumers.

Additional Context

Asbestos has been banned in more than 50 countries. The current proposal targets the single remaining form imported into the United States.