The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced an $18.5 million settlement that resolves environmental claims with governmental entities. At this point, none of the funds go to the victims of the W.R. Grace & Co. mine or the hundreds of individuals diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases in the town of Libby, Montana. The mine, which operated for decades, exposed workers and residents to dangerous levels of the carcinogenic mineral.
Libby, Montana Residents Diagnosed with Malignant Mesothelioma and other Asbestos-Related Diseases
The settlement brings to an end a portion of the decades-long investigation. There has been and continues to be litigation involving individuals and families who were diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases, including malignant mesothelioma. The monies from the settlement will go towards resolving claims and funding continuing environmental clean-up projects and removal of the asbestos-containing materials that continue to contaminate homes and structures in the small town.
Millions Spent Over the Years to Clean Up Libby Contamination that Led to Mesothelioma
Upon discovery of the many cases of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses being caused by the W.R. Grace & Company, the company faced over 65,000 asbestos-related personal injury lawsuits encompassing more than 129,000 individual claims. They filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2001 that placed trust funds into an asbestos personal injury trust and an asbestos property damage trust. The company also paid the EPA $250 million for cleanup work.
The $18.5 million settlement addresses the last of the environmental claims that the state issued against the company. Montana’s governor Greg Gianforte said, “After years of negotiation following Grace’s historic damage, Libby and communities in Lincoln County can more fully recover. I look forward to the positive impact this settlement can bring to the people of Libby and Lincoln County.”
If you or someone you love has been impacted by exposure to asbestos, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net can help. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608 for more information.
