In a recent press conference held this week, New Jersey Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr., and a group of Congressional representatives discussed ‘The Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act (H.R. 1603)’ introduced in March, to call a complete ban on the use of asbestos due to its continuing risk of mesothelioma and other health problems.
Asbestos has been linked to a number of forms of respiratory illnesses and cancer, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Currently, the use is banned on corrugated paper, roll board, commercial paper, and specialty paper, flooring felt and new commercial uses that began after August 25, 1989. Pallone also stated that asbestos has been banned in more than 60 countries and is the number one cause of work-related deaths in the world, yet the U.S. still continues to import and use the carcinogenic material.
Nearly 14,000 talcum powder lawsuits are filed against J&J, each raising a common allegation that asbestos exposure from the company’s talc-based products causes ovarian cancer or mesothelioma. Hon. Freda L. Wolfson, U.S.D.J./ Hon. Lois H. Goodman, U.S.M.J. overlooks J&J's talcum powder multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2738; In Re: Johnson & Johnson Talcum Powder Products Marketing, Sales Practices, and Products Liability Litigation) in the District of New Jersey.
