Correa Introduces Bill to Prevent and Treat Silicosis, Protect Workers in Orange County

Silicosis Prevention and Treatment Act would fund education, screening, and care for workers exposed to silica ANAHEIM, Calif. – Representatives Lou Correa (CA-46) and Maxine Dexter (OR-3) introduced the Silicosis Prevention and Treatment Act, which would create a federal grant program to help healthcare facilities educate the public about silicosis and provide prevention and treatment measures for those affected. Silicosis is entirely preventable by stopping silica dust from entering the lungs. Because there is no cure or way to reverse the lung damage it causes, prevention is vital. "No worker should lose their ability to breathe because of the job they do to support their family," said Congressman Lou Correa . "In Anaheim's Tile Mile, workers who cut manufactured stone countertops are being diagnosed with silicosis at alarming rates. Silicosis is preventable, and early detection can save lives. This bill puts resources into the hands of the clinics and hospitals that treat these workers, so they get the care they need before it's too late." "A paycheck should never come at the cost of your ability to breathe,” said Congresswoman Maxine Dexter, M.D. “As a pulmonologist, I know the devastating impacts of lung disease. As cases rapidly increase, it is critical that we are educating those that are most at risk for this irreversible disease. The Silicosis Prevention and Treatment Act will create funding for healthcare facilities to disseminate information and raise awareness about this progressive lung disease. We must protect the people whose hard work builds our communities." The Silicosis Prevention and Treatment Act creates a grant program to award healthcare providers with federal funding to: Conduct outreach and education to increase awareness of silicosis Provide screening, diagnosis, and treatment of silicosis Education programs for patients, family members, and workers in industries heavily impacted by silicosis Pulmonary rehabilitation and other patient care and coordination Read the bill text here . Background Silica is a common mineral found in sand, quartz, and other types of rock. Exposure can cause silicosis, a disease that scars the lungs, makes breathing difficult, and can lead to irreversible complications. Approximately 2.3 million people are exposed to silica on the job, including in construction and mining. Correa's district is home to the Tile Mile in Anaheim, where many workers cut and fabricate manufactured stone countertops, a process that releases silica dust. Orange County alone accounts for 135+ of California’s 662+ confirmed silicosis cases . There is no cure for silicosis, but awareness and early treatment can help people identify symptoms sooner and prevent or manage lung damage. Print Email Share Tweet