Baucus calls for EPA investigation

U.S. Sen. Max Baucus is calling for an investigation into how the Environmental Protection Agency is handling the cleanup of asbestos contamination stemming from former vermiculite mining and processing in the Libby area.

In a letter to acting EPA inspector general Bill Roderick, Baucus said asbestos contamination in Libby "has devastated the lives of hundreds of families" and that thousands are sick and more than 200 have died.

"That is why it is of the utmost importance that the EPA work to rid the town of the poisonous asbestos, and get the job done right," Baucus wrote. "I would like to request an oversight review by your office to ensure that the EPA's cleanup efforts in Libby are performed with the greatest attention to the health and safety of its residents, and pursuant to acceptable scientific methods."

Baucus asked Roderick to review how the EPA conducted its contaminant screening study and risk assessment and how exposure criteria were determined. He asked for an examination to ensure that the EPA had conducted a thorough review of available toxicological data and that the EPA's standards reflect an understanding of the particular nature of the type of asbestos found as a contaminant in the vermiculite mined near Libby from the 1920s until 1990.

Baucus also requested a report on the EPA's continued communication with the community and the accuracy of statements made in EPA publications as "Living with Asbestos" and in letters sent to homeowners following cleanup of contaminated properties.

"The health and economic future of the community of Libby depend on EPA getting the cleanup done right and quickly," Baucus concluded. "It is important that your office complete this work in a timely fashion so that Libby residents can rest assured that their community is safe."