Press Release
 

Ensign: Asbestos Bill Increases Deficit

Broad Support for Budget Point of Order

WASHINGTON D.C. — In a letter to Congress dated February 13th, asbestos victims voiced their support for a budget point of order by Senator John Ensign of Nevada that questions the financial viability of the asbestos trust fund bill, S. 852.

Last week, Senator John Ensign of Nevada raised the point of order against the asbestos bill, arguing that the number of claimants will likely far exceed the bill's revenue projections. As a result, the additional funds will come from taxpayers, not the corporations targeted to pay into the fund. Ensign said this would dramatically increase the federal budget deficit which is already at record levels.

In the letter, the Committee to Protect Mesothelioma Victims stated it "holds grave reservations about the financial viability of the asbestos trust fund and believes Senator Ensign is correct in questioning the fiscal impact of this legislation."

The group continued, "It is wholly unsound and unstable, both financially and judiciously, putting recovery for victims at great risk."

If the budget point of order against the fund is sustained, the bill will be deferred. A number of fiscally conservative senators are also expected to support Sen. Ensign's initiative, which will be debated and likely voted on Tuesday afternoon.

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The Committee to Protect Mesothelioma Victims (CPMV) is an organization founded by asbestos victims and their families and friends. CPMV works to raise awareness on national asbestos issues and ensure that victims' rights are properly represented and protected on both a local and national level. For more information, www.asbestostruth.org.