Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2026

This bill, known as the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2026, amends the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to establish a comprehensive ban on commercial asbestos . Effective immediately upon enactment, it prohibits the manufacture, processing, use, and distribution in commerce of commercial asbestos and any mixtures or articles containing it. The legislation specifically defines "commercial asbestos" to include eight asbestiform varieties, such as chrysotile and crocidolite, when extracted and processed for commercial value. The ban does not apply to commercial asbestos present solely as an impurity, nor does it affect the end-use of existing installations or the distribution of materials solely for disposal. For the chlor-alkali industry, existing facilities are granted a temporary authorization to use asbestos diaphragms until May 25, 2032, with a possible extension to 2036 for those meeting specific transition criteria. Additionally, the processing, use, and distribution of commercial asbestos sheet gaskets will continue to be governed by existing EPA regulations. A critical provision allows the President to grant a national security exemption for up to three years, renewable once, if no feasible alternative exists and it is deemed necessary for national security interests. Such exemptions require public notice, unless national security is compromised, and must include terms to minimize exposure. The bill also clarifies that it does not prohibit metal ore mining activities involving the extraction or processing of ores.