Proposed Bill Would Hurt Asbestos Claims

In June of this year, Republicans pushed a bill through the House Judiciary Committee, which is designed to make it harder for victims of asbestos exposure to get fairly compensated. Supposedly, the bill will address systemic fraud and abuse around asbestos claims—but there’s no compelling evidence fraud is actually happening.

The Furthering Asbestos Claim Transparency Act (FACT) of 2013 is skewed towards asbestos companies; it would allow them to demand information from dedicated asbestos trusts (which have very limited resources), for any reason. This is equivalent to a delaying tactic, stalling out payments to victims. In recent decades, workers sickened by asbestos exposure have filed lawsuits against the companies who exposed them—many companies were aware of the dangers but concealed the risks—and some of these companies declared bankruptcy, but were ordered to set up trusts (paid from company money) to settle present and future asbestos claims. Usually, these trusts pay out a minor percentage of a claim’s value; if the company is not bankrupt, plaintiffs can sue.

In addition to dragging out settlement claims (and it’s worth noting that mesothelioma, the most common cancer caused by asbestos exposure, is a very rapid and lethal illness), the Republican bill also aims to increase the burden on victims to supply information. The asbestos companies would face no greater demands—they wouldn’t have to disclose any settlements reached with victims, or explain where their products were used and when. This information would help the victims determine which companies and trusts to hold liable for their sicknesses; many asbestos victims worked for multiple companies. Hopefully, more level heads in Congress will prevail, and this blatantly corporate boost of a bill will die in committee.

If you or someone you care for has suffered an injury as a result of negligence, you have options. Contact 844 See Mike, at 312-224-4695 for a free consultation. Michael Agruss is a Chicago asbestos attorney representing individuals and families who have suffered an injury or loss due to an accident. 844 See Mike, will handle your personal injury case quickly, will advise you every step of the way, and will not hesitate to go to trial for you.

Lastly, 844 See Mike, does not get paid attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. Therefore, you have nothing to risk when you hire us–just the opportunity to seek justice.