Oklahoma Governor Signs Asbestos Cleanup Bill

Gov. Mary Fallin has signed into law a bill she says clarifies the state Department of Labor’s role in asbestos removal projects in buildings and structures.

The measure eliminates language related to asbestos abatement in private and public facilities. It clarifies that the Department of Labor is the primary authority for asbestos abatement on job sites.

In addition, the agency has signed a cooperative agreement with the Department of Environmental Quality clarifying jurisdictional authorities in asbestos cleanup projects.

Fallin says communities across the state have worked to restore historic buildings and structures that have fallen into disrepair, but they often contain asbestos that must be removed to protect public health. She says the legislation will reduce the regulatory burden on contractors.

The asbestos cleanup measure is Senate Bill 658.