November 30, 2010 -- Congresswoman McCollum’s Resolution to Fight Mesothelioma Passed by Congress PDF Print
For Immediate Release: November 30, 2010
Contact: Maria Reppas, (202) 225-6631 / (202) 527-0149 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Resolution Honors Those Who Have Died of Mesothelioma and Aims to Educate Americans on Causes of the Disease

Washington, DC - Yesterday, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed a resolution introduced by Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04), supporting the goals and ideals of National Mesothelioma Awareness Day (H.Res.771). The final vote was 363 - 0.

Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, and is frequently found in an affected person's chest, lungs, or abdomen. Dedicating a day to this preventable disease will help increase Americans' awareness of Mesothelioma so they can take action to minimize exposure to asbestos.

Although exposure to asbestos is highly dangerous, it can still be found in many everyday products, such as gaskets, brakepads, and roofing materials. While at work, over one million American workers face significant exposure to asbestos.

Congresswoman McCollum issued the following statement in support of H.Res.771.

"Mesothelioma is an asbestos-linked cancer most often found in a person's chest, lungs, or abdomen. More than a million Americans are exposed to dangerous levels of asbestos while on the job, including military personnel, firefighters, and construction workers. In fact, workers in our own Capitol complex are suffering from asbestos exposure. Many of these individuals are unaware of the risk at the time.

"The fight against Mesothelioma is a personal issue for me. I know many people that have been affected as well as members of my family and friends. In 2000, my friend and predecessor Congressman Bruce Vento was diagnosed with Pleural Mesothelioma. The news was devastating for his family, personal friends, and all of us in Minnesota that knew him. Bruce represented Minnesota's Fourth Congressional District from 1977-2000. During his service in Congress, he was tireless advocate on behalf of his constituents and a national champion for environmental protection and the rights of the homeless.

"I thank all of my Congressional colleagues for their support of this bipartisan resolution."

Congresswoman Betty McCollum serves on the House Appropriations and Budget Committees.

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