Linda Reinstein Marks ARBAN Act Milestone with First GOP Senate Sponsor as World Lung Cancer Day Highlights Prevention

Linda Reinstein

BCPA Co-Founder Says First Republican Senate Sponsor Marks a Turning Point in the Fight to End Preventable Asbestos Exposure

LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, August 6, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- As the nation marks the 15th Annual World Lung Cancer Day on August 1, 2026, the conversation surrounding lung health and preventable environmental exposures takes on renewed urgency. For Linda Reinstein, co-founder and president of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) and a board member of the Ban Asbestos Coalition of America (BCPA), this year's observance carries added significance as the fight to eliminate asbestos-related disease reaches a historic legislative milestone.

"For more than two decades, we have worked to ensure that no other family experiences the devastating loss mine did," says Reinstein. "The bipartisan Senate reintroduction of the ARBAN Act represents meaningful progress and demonstrates that protecting Americans from a known carcinogen is an issue that can unite lawmakers across party lines."

For the first time, the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now (ARBAN) Act of 2026 receives bipartisan support in the U.S. Senate, with Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and John Curtis (R-UT) introducing the legislation. Senator Curtis becomes the first Republican senator to co-sponsor the bill, signaling a growing recognition that preventing asbestos exposure is a public health priority, not a political issue.

Named in honor of Linda Reinstein's late husband, Alan Reinstein, who died from mesothelioma following asbestos exposure, the ARBAN Act seeks to permanently ban the importation, manufacture, processing, distribution, and commercial use of asbestos in the United States. Supporters say the legislation closes regulatory gaps that allow asbestos-containing products to remain available decades after many other nations enact comprehensive bans.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral once widely used in construction, manufacturing, and consumer products because of its strength, durability, and resistance to heat and fire. However, when asbestos fibers become airborne and are inhaled, they can cause devastating health conditions, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Despite decades of awareness about its dangers, asbestos exposure continues to claim more than 200,000 lives worldwide each year, making stronger protections, education, and prevention critical public health priorities.

While asbestos is often associated with aging schools, factories, and commercial buildings, Reinstein emphasizes that the risk has not disappeared.

"Many people assume asbestos is a problem of the past, but that's simply not true," explains Reinstein. "Some imported products can still contain small amounts of asbestos, meaning exposure remains possible even in newer homes and consumer products. Asbestos may also be present in older buildings, construction materials, automotive parts, and other products where it can be released during renovations, repairs, demolition, or maintenance. Staying informed about where asbestos may be found and understanding the risks are critical steps in protecting individuals, families, and communities."

The urgency of that message is reinforced by World Lung Cancer Day. Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, and asbestos exposure is a well-established cause of both lung cancer and mesothelioma. Public health advocates emphasize that reducing preventable environmental exposures is an essential part of lowering future cancer rates.

"Every step toward bipartisan support brings us closer to ending preventable asbestos-related disease," adds Reinstein. "This is about saving lives, protecting workers and families, and ensuring future generations never have to suffer from an entirely preventable exposure."

About Linda Reinstein

Linda Reinstein is a nationally recognized public health advocate, mesothelioma widow, and co-founder of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO). For more than 20 years, she champions science-based policy, asbestos education, and legislative reform while honoring the legacy of her late husband, Alan Reinstein. Through advocacy, public education, and coalition-building, she continues to lead national and international efforts to eliminate asbestos-related disease.

For more information about the Ban Asbestos Coalition of America and the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2026, visit: https://www.asbestosdiseaseawareness.org/newsroom/blogs/senators-merkley-curtis-reintroduce-arban/

Linda Reinstein is available for interviews.

Amanda Kent
Boundless Media USA
+1 313-403-5636
email us here