EPA GRANT FOR MAINE
Maine to receive $6.1-million environmental grant to cleanup asbestos sites

June 5, 2009 – The U.S. Environmental Agency (EPA) announced last month that Maine will receive $6.1 million in federal grants to cleanup a half dozen populated sites polluted with asbestos and other toxins.

Newly released government research identifies Maine as having the highest mesothelioma death rate per capita of any state in the nation.

The National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety, an arm of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, calculates that between 1999 and 2005, 173 individuals died from mesothelioma, the deadliest of asbestos-related cancers.

The cities of Bath, Augusta and Lewiston are receiving environmental cleanup grants, as are the towns of Sanford, Howland, Orono and Windham.

The EPA grants are part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that the Obama Administration signed into law in February.

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a fatal cancer associated with exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma has no known cure, and most patients die within a year to 18 months after a diagnosis. The latency period between exposure and a diagnosis is commonly 20 to 40 years, though it may be longer. That is why many cases are being diagnosed today, despite recent restrictions on the use of asbestos.

Construction work accounts for 15 percent of mesothelioma deaths. Other venues with a high rate of mesothelioma include shipbuilding and repair, chemical manufacturing, petroleum refining, and the utility industry. Trades or occupations most at risk include pipe fitters, steamfitters, plumbers, mechanical engineers, electricians and elementary school teachers.

Mesothelioma law firm for Maine residents

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, and seek FREE legal guidance, please notify us through the communication form on this page. We will pursue your claim with vigilance. And because we work on a contingency basis, there is no cost to you until we win a verdict or settlement.