Over the weekend Democrats introduced their health care package which includes a provision that would assist the people in Libby, Montana who have been exposed to asbestos.    The language is vague proposing an expansion of Medicare for “victims of environmental health hazards.”  It also refers to the federal government’s declaration of a public health emergency on June 17th.  This declaration was for the residents of Libby, Montana many of whom have been affected by mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other asbestos-related diseases.  Connecting the dots – one can see the provision is meant to assist those exposed to deadly asbestos from the vermiculite mine located in Libby.

The plan includes other proposals including expanded health care benefits for more than 30 million people.  It also has provisions that would assist specific state issues.  State leaders are weighing in on their issues and parties are taking sides.

Victims, families and advocates should watch how this progresses as the health care package weaves through our legislative process.  The Senate is hoping for a final vote on Christmas Eve.

For the complete story “Deep in Health Bill, Very Specific Beneficiaries”