Many Americans are asking, “Is asbestos banned in the US?” Others are worried about the EPA asbestos reversal and Trump’s asbestos regulations. Let’s explore the facts clearly, using simple words and straight answers.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a group of minerals used in buildings, roofing, insulation, and fireproofing. It resists heat and electricity, which made it popular in the past.
However, it causes deadly diseases like lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Breathing in asbestos fibers can lead to serious health problems.
Is Asbestos Banned in the US?
Not completely. The EPA banned some uses of asbestos in 1989. But in 1991, a court decision overturned most parts of that ban.
Today, asbestos is still legal in the US for certain products. The EPA and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) set strict rules for how it can be used.
Trump and Asbestos: What Happened?
Many people wonder, “Did Trump bring back asbestos?”
Here’s the truth:
Donald Trump did not fully bring back asbestos, but his EPA made it easier for companies to use certain asbestos products. In 2019, the EPA allowed new asbestos uses on a case-by-case basis.
Trump also praised asbestos in past statements. He once called the asbestos ban a “mob-led scam.” These views raised concern among health experts.
What Is the EPA Asbestos Reversal?
The term “EPA asbestos reversal” refers to changes under Trump’s administration. His EPA changed how it reviewed asbestos risks.
Under the new policy, the EPA did not study existing uses of asbestos already in the market. Critics say this weakened protections for public health.
So, while the EPA did not remove all rules, it did relax certain protections.
Snopes on Asbestos: What’s the Truth?
You may have seen headlines like “Trump brings back asbestos.” But is it true?
According to Snopes, this claim is misleading. The asbestos ban was not reversed. But the Trump EPA made asbestos rules less strict.
So, asbestos was never fully banned, and the Trump-era EPA didn’t lift a ban—but it made changes that allowed more use.
Who Is Robert John May?
Robert John May served in the EPA under Trump. He worked on chemical safety rules, including those about asbestos.
Many environmental groups criticized him. They believed he supported industry interests more than public health.
What About Asbestos from Russia?
Russia is one of the biggest producers of asbestos. Some US companies buy asbestos from Russia because it’s cheaper.
Critics warned that relaxed rules under Trump might increase asbestos imports from Russia. That could make asbestos more common in US products.
Current Status of the EPA and Asbestos
After Trump left office, the EPA began reviewing its asbestos policy again.
In 2021, the Biden EPA restarted efforts to fully ban asbestos. They proposed stronger rules and more testing of old and new uses.
We’re not there yet, but full asbestos bans might come in the near future.
Summary of EPA Asbestos Policy Changes
| Administration | Action on Asbestos |
|---|---|
| Obama | Tightened regulations, slow phaseout |
| Trump (2016–2020) | Loosened rules (SNUR rule) |
| Biden (2021–2024) | Finalized full chrysotile asbestos ban |
| Trump (2025– ) | EPA asbestos reversal underway |
Summary: Key Points
- Asbestos is not fully banned in the US.
- Trump’s EPA allowed limited new uses of asbestos.
- The term “asbestos ban reversal” refers to weakened rules, not a full ban removal.
- Robert John May was a Trump-era EPA official tied to these changes.
- Russia exports asbestos to countries like the US.
- The EPA is now working again toward stricter bans.
