Supporters, I have incredible news to share. The Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2017 was introduced yesterday in the U.S. Senate! This bill would expedite the EPA’s current asbestos evaluation and regulation process, moving directly to prohibition within 18 months of the bill’s passage. This bill has solid Senatorial support. Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR), a senior senator on the Environment and Public Works Committee, introduced ARBAN with seven strong cosponsors: Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jon Tester (D-MT), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). In addition to saving lives with the expedited ban, ARBAN is also expected to save the EPA time and money, while preventing harmful exemptions that could allow the chloralkali industry to continue its dangerous use of asbestos. With the increase in asbestos imports and more than 15,000 Americans dying each year from asbestos exposure, the timing of the bill is critical. As ARBAN sponsor Sen. Merkley said, “It’s outrageous that in the year 2017, asbestos is still allowed in the United States. It’s time for us to catch up to the rest of the developed world, and ban this dangerous public health threat once and for all.” ADAO thanks the righteous and dedicated Senators championing this bill, and we thank you, too. None of this would have been possible without our dedicated, smart, and generous supporters. Every time you share your story, spread awareness, advocate, donate, or sign a petition, you are bringing us one step closer to a ban and an asbestos-free future. In solidarity, Linda P.S. If you want to help us keep fighting and are able, please consider chipping in a few dollars to ADAO’s education and advocacy fund by visiting www.adao.us/donate.