The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced it will be banning the use of chrysotile asbestos, the last commercial asbestos derivative available in the United States. The ban will primarily impact the automotive industry and puts an end to the 40-plus years of reforms against its use, which has for a long time been proven to cause multiple forms of cancer.

In a statement on the ban, EPA Administrator Michael Regan told reporters: "The science is clear — asbestos is a known carcinogen that has severe impacts on public health. President Biden understands that this concern that has spanned generations and impacted the lives of countless people. That’s why EPA is so proud to finalize this long-needed ban on ongoing uses of asbestos."

CNN noted that the chrysotile type of asbestos is most commonly used to manufacture car brakes and linings and other automotive products like gaskets. The industry will have six months to comply with the new ban within 60 days of it entering the Federal Register. The AFL-CIO said it was a "landmark protection" for workers.

A recent study detailed 600,000 miles of water pipes with more than a 50-year lifespan as still containing asbestos in the U.S. Exposure to asbestos is still a leading cause of death for upwards of 40,000 people each year.