A Life-Threatening Substance in Question
In 2025, the Biden administration enacted a landmark public health policy by banning the last remaining type of asbestos still in use in the United States: chrysotile asbestos, also known as “white asbestos.” This decision aligned the U.S. with over 50 countries that had already outlawed the substance due to its well-documented link to cancer.
But in a significant and controversial shift, the Trump administration’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is now reconsidering that ban. According to a recent report by The New York Times, the agency has delayed implementation and may overhaul the rule entirely.
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What Is Chrysotile Asbestos—and Why Is It Still Around?
Chrysotile asbestos has long been associated with severe health risks, including lung cancer, ovarian cancer, laryngeal cancer, and mesothelioma—a rare and aggressive form of cancer affecting the lining of major organs. Despite these dangers, the material remains in limited use across several industries. It can still be found in certain roofing materials, cement, brake pads, textiles, and even in chlorine production.
The EPA estimates that asbestos exposure is responsible for over 40,000 deaths annually in the United States.
The Biden-Era Ban: A Phased Approach
Recognizing the dangers, the Biden administration introduced a phased ban on chrysotile asbestos in 2024. The policy included a 12-year transition period, allowing industries time to adapt while ultimately aiming to eliminate the substance by 2036. While far from an immediate halt, the rule marked a clear direction toward greater public health protections.
Industry Pushback and the Trump Administration’s Response
The chemical industry, however, viewed even the lengthy phase-out period as burdensome. In response to industry concerns, the Trump administration is reportedly working to amend the rule, potentially lifting restrictions on asbestos use in specific applications such as chlorine production and sheet gaskets in chemical manufacturing.
Critics argue that this reversal prioritizes corporate convenience over public safety.
Lobbying Influence Inside the EPA
The rationale behind the rollback raises questions about the influence of industry lobbyists within the EPA. The court filing signaling the agency’s reconsideration of the rule was signed by Lynn Dekleva, a senior official in the Trump-era EPA. Dekleva’s background includes a 32-year tenure at DuPont—one of the major producers of controversial “forever chemicals”—and a lobbying position at the American Chemistry Council, where she previously worked to block carcinogen regulations.
Now in a pivotal position at the EPA, Dekleva’s appointment illustrates how closely tied the agency has become to the industries it is meant to regulate.
A Step Backward for Public Health?
While the move may please certain chemical manufacturers, public health advocates and environmental groups view it as a dangerous step backward. With asbestos-linked deaths still high, and global consensus largely favoring bans on the substance, the Trump EPA’s actions could expose future generations to unnecessary risk.
At a time when the focus should arguably be on advancing health protections, the decision to revisit and potentially reverse the asbestos ban places regulatory priorities squarely in the hands of industrial influence—and leaves Americans to bear the consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chrysotile asbestos?
Chrysotile, also known as white asbestos, is the most common form of asbestos still in limited industrial use. It has been linked to various cancers, including mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Why did the Biden administration ban chrysotile asbestos?
The Biden administration banned chrysotile asbestos in 2025 due to its serious health risks. The ban aimed to phase out its use and align U.S. policy with international public health standards.
Is the ban on asbestos currently in effect?
The ban includes a 12-year phase-out period and would not be fully in effect until 2036. However, the Trump EPA is now reconsidering this ban and may revise or delay it.
What industries still use chrysotile asbestos?
Chrysotile asbestos is still used in some roofing materials, brake pads, cement, textiles, and especially in chlorine production and chemical manufacturing.
How many deaths are linked to asbestos exposure in the U.S.?
The EPA estimates that asbestos exposure causes over 40,000 deaths annually in the United States.
Why is the Trump administration reconsidering the ban?
The reconsideration appears to stem from pressure by chemical manufacturers and industry lobbyists who argue that the ban could harm production, especially in chlorine and gasket manufacturing.
Who is Lynn Dekleva, and why is she significant in this debate?
Lynn Dekleva is a Trump-appointed EPA official who previously worked at DuPont and lobbied against chemical regulations. Her signature on the court filing reflects the influence of industry insiders in current EPA decision-making.
Conclusion
The reconsideration of the asbestos ban by the Trump-era EPA is more than just a regulatory footnote—it’s a stark example of how public health can be compromised when industry influence overrides scientific consensus. With decades of research confirming the deadly risks of chrysotile asbestos and more than 40,000 American lives lost each year due to exposure, the case for a complete ban is both urgent and clear.
Rolling back this progress not only delays much-needed protections but also sends a troubling message about the priorities of those tasked with safeguarding the nation’s well-being. As the debate continues, it remains critical for policymakers to uphold science-driven regulations and prioritize human health over corporate convenience.
