EPA Declares Public Health Emergency In Libby, MT - Baucus Praises Likely Boost For Health Spending

LIBBY - Millions more in federal money is expected for Libby area asbestos cleanup and medical care, with the announcement Wednesday of an emergency health declaration. It is the first time such a declaration has been made in the United States, and identifies the town as a top financial priority for environmental remediation and patient treatment.

“This is a truly historic day for the people of Libby, and for justice,” said Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont. Baucus has long pushed for the federal declaration, saying it would help provide funding, particularly for treatment of asbestos-related disease. Now, he said, Libby residents “will get the help they deserve.”

For decades, W.R. Grace and Co. operated a vermiculite mine not far from town, unearthing in the process deadly asbestos fibers. Miners carried the toxic dust home on their clothes, spreading the fibers to entire families. The asbestos-laced vermiculite also was used as ground cover at local ballfields and schools.

Federal officials now say Libby residents suffer asbestos-related health problems at a rate 40 to 60 times the national average, and contract rare asbestos-related cancer at a rate 100 times the average. Hundreds are thought to have died, with many more affected.

EDIT

http://www.missoulian.com/articles/2009/06/18/news/local/news02.txt

health care. Manufacturers spew pollution that causes health problems in their communities but do not have to pay for health care of those they damage. For those without insurance - too bad, including children.
Again - the taxpayer is picking up the tab for the corporation.

Who needs Viagra when all you gotta keep doing is whispering "billions"?