The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has made strides in recent years with U.S. asbestos regulations. Notably, the agency banned ongoing chrysotile asbestos uses in 2024. This is one of several newer laws that aim to reduce asbestos risks for workers and consumers.
So far, 2025 has brought shifts to the EPA, like environmental policy changes and new leadership appointees. These changes are in varying stages of implementation or discussion. Some groups question if this will lead to more relaxed asbestos regulations. What do we know so far?
What Does the Future of U.S. Asbestos Regulation Look Like?
It’s too soon to say how U.S. asbestos policies and laws will look in the future. But several recent EPA changes may impact how well the mineral is regulated. Some in-progress laws further restricting asbestos may also be slowed down.
Compared to many other countries, the United States has lax asbestos laws. These potential changes would mirror other countries with little to no asbestos regulation. Examples include Russia, China and India. These countries face high rates of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
The data is clear. Strict asbestos regulations reduce rates of asbestos exposure and related diseases. Many countries have opted to fully ban the mineral. Evidence shows that relaxed regulations may leave more room for harm.
Changes to the EPA That May Impact Asbestos Laws
As of yet, no asbestos laws or regulations have changed. This is an ongoing and developing process, so predictions can’t be made with certainty. But experts have highlighted some potential asbestos-related changes.
Several proposed shifts, like loosening national emission standards, may impact asbestos restrictions. Secondary effects of other changes may also slow down the enforcement of newer asbestos rules. Plus, new EPA appointees may prioritize other issues over asbestos regulations.
Asbestos-Related Policy Shifts
Some policies that cover or are related to asbestos limitations may be revised. For instance, an updated regulatory review process could require existing asbestos rules (like the chrysotile ban) to be reviewed again. This could slow down the enforcement timeline.
Changes to the EPA’s budget may impact asbestos monitoring. Without resources to enforce these laws, it may be easier for asbestos companies to cut corners. And an EPA shift towards economic impact assessments might affect how quick or effective future asbestos-related rules are.
Newly Appointed EPA Leadership
New and upcoming EPA appointees may impact the prioritization of asbestos laws. They may prioritize different industrial and environmental issues over asbestos. Some advocates say this could shift the focus away from its regulation.
Key points about these appointees include:
- Lee Zeldin (appointed): New EPA Administrator, who proposed a 65% budget cut for the EPA. He also plans to reconsider the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP), which sets airborne asbestos regulations.
- David Fotouhi (in progress): Under U.S. Senate consideration for EPA Deputy Administrator. As a lawyer, he has a history of working for the asbestos industry. His final confirmation to the role is pending.
- Aaron Szabo (in progress): Under U.S. Senate consideration for EPA Assistant Administrator for the Office of Air and Radiation. He is a former petroleum lobbyist with close ties to the industry. His final confirmation to the role is pending.
In the past, some of the appointees have opposed the EPA. In 2024, Fotouhi defended auto manufacturers in a prominent lawsuit. He challenged the merit of the EPA’s new chrysotile asbestos ban. These appointees may prefer more flexible approaches to asbestos risk management.
Federal agencies other than the EPA are involved in asbestos regulation. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has guidelines for proper workplace asbestos handling. This includes requirements for companies whose employees interact with asbestos.
If EPA asbestos laws change, people can continue taking steps to reduce their exposure risks.
