USA Today reports: Granholm wants to halt Mich. asbestos inspections

Michigan's environmental regulatory agency says it no longer can afford to inspect buildings scheduled for demolition or renovation to prevent asbestos releases into the air.

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's proposed budget recommends dropping the Department of Environmental Quality program designed to ensure compliance with federal asbestos rules. Significant exposure to the fibrous mineral is believed to boost risk of lung cancer and other respiratory illnesses.

If the Legislature approves, responsibility for conducting inspections and punishing violators will revert to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's regional office in Chicago, which critics say lacks the resources to do an adequate job.

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