Compensation Fund for Asbestos Injuries
According to the Environmental Working Group, 10,000 deaths annually in the U.S. can be attributed to asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma, scarring of the lung tissue and several types of cancer including lung cancer are all health concerns related to asbestos.
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History
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The 1970s saw a rise in lawsuits against companies manufacturing asbestos. As liabilities started to outweigh assets, many of these companies declared bankruptcy. In response, the Senate passed a bill in 2005 requiring these companies to pay money into an asbestos injury compensation fund.
Criticism
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The asbestos injury compensation fund has been criticized for being underfunded and stringent eligibility requirements. Since many asbestos-related issues have a latency period of 20 years or more, victims have a hard time proving the sickness is asbestos-related. In addition, smokers are excluded from this fund. Only workers and their families working directly with asbestos for five years or more are eligible.
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Resources
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Federal employees can look into the Federal Employees Compensation Program, and each state has its own worker's compensation fund for which victims may be eligible. Many victims consult attorneys to help them navigate the process.
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References
- Photo Credit Hard working construction worker at a construction scene. image by Andy Dean from Fotolia.com
