Asbestos Crisis Deepens as CARD Clinic in Libby Shuts Down

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News Summary

The closure of the CARD clinic ends essential health services for Libby residents suffering from asbestos-related diseases, following a legal battle with BNSF Railway.

Asbestos Crisis Deepens as CARD Clinic in Libby Shuts Down

In a worrying turn of events for the small town of Libby, Montana, the Center for Asbestos Related Disease (CARD) has been ordered to close, threatening the health of thousands who have faced the dire consequences of asbestos exposure. The closure, enacted by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, was formalized on May 7, 2025, following a court ruling that mandated CARD to pay $3.1 million to BNSF Railway.

Background on the CARD Clinic

Established in 2000, the CARD clinic has been a lifeline for the approximately 3,000 residents of Libby, who have suffered from asbestos-related illnesses as a result of a nearby vermiculite mine that operated until 1990. For over two decades, the clinic has played a crucial role in providing necessary health screenings and treatments, including X-rays, CT scans, breathing tests, and blood work to those affected by this deadly mineral.

The Legal Battle with BNSF Railway

The legal troubles began in 2023 when BNSF Railway filed a lawsuit alleging that CARD had fraudulently claimed patient eligibility for asbestos-related benefits. After a contentious trial, a jury found that 337 out of more than 2,000 diagnoses made by CARD were invalid, leading to a jury award of $6 million, which included not only damages but also attorney fees and court costs. In short, the implications of this ruling could mark a significant blow to the clinic’s operations and the health services it provides.

Impact on the Community

With its closure, the residents of Libby face an uncertain and troubling future. CARD has certified over 3,400 cases of asbestos-related diseases, including the aggressive cancer mesothelioma, which has claimed the lives of many in the community. The town, heavily affected by asbestos contamination, is still recovering from the legacy of the mine and the widespread health issues associated with it.

In the face of this closure, the clinic’s executive director has voiced deep concerns about the adverse impact on public health. The arguments put forth by BNSF regarding the legality of their seizure of CARD’s assets have raised red flags, especially since they may conflict with a previous bankruptcy settlement the clinic reached in August 2023.

Federal Support and Previous Contaminations

CARD has received substantial support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which has funded much of its operations. This financial backing is critical, as the majority of CARD’s budget relies on federal grants specifically allocated for tackling asbestos exposure and health issues. Moreover, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) declared the Libby site a Superfund site back in 2002 due to its severe asbestos contamination.

In a dramatic twist, legal repercussions for BNSF Railway continue to unfold. A federal jury identified the railroad as being partly responsible for the deaths of two Libby residents due to mesothelioma. The railroad’s ongoing negligence regarding past pollution and contamination issues has left many in the region on edge as they navigate the considerable challenges of addressing their health and future.

What Lies Ahead?

Despite the setback, CARD aims to fight for a reopening as quickly as possible to regain the essential services it provided for over 20 years. As rain showers loom and the community braces for looming uncertainties, the fate of CARD remains a critical flashpoint in the ongoing battle against asbestos-related diseases in Libby.

In conclusion, the sudden closure of the Center for Asbestos Related Disease signifies not only a loss of medical services but also a harsh reminder of the enduring struggle faced by residents of Libby. With increasing legal challenges and the weight of a complicated health crisis bearing down on the community, the fight for justice and health continues amidst cloudy skies and an uncertain future.