News Summary

The closure of the Center for Asbestos Related Disease in Libby, Montana, sparks crucial public health concerns and raises questions about access to healthcare.

Closure of Libby’s Asbestos Screening Clinic Raises Public Health Concerns

In a shocking turn of events, the Center for Asbestos Related Disease (CARD) in Libby, Montana, has been shuttered following a court order issued on May 7, 2025. This closure, executed by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, stems from a judgment against the clinic in favor of the BNSF Railway Company, amounting to a staggering $3.1 million. This ruling comes amid allegations that BNSF contributed to widespread pollution in the area, leading to dangerous exposure to asbestos for local residents.

Implications of the Clinic’s Closure

The closure of CARD, an establishment that has been at the forefront of diagnosing and treating individuals affected by asbestos exposure for over two decades, raises significant concerns regarding public health. The clinic has provided vital health screenings and treatment for those suffering from conditions linked to the nearby mine that operated for decades, as well as managing cases of asbestosis and mesothelioma resulting from toxic dust.

The recent court ruling stems from a 2023 lawsuit in which it was uncovered that CARD had fraudulently classified some patients as eligible for government benefits while being aware that they were not suffering from any asbestos-related illness. The case, brought forth by BNSF on behalf of the federal government, challenged over 2,000 diagnoses made by the clinic, ultimately ruling that 337 of these diagnoses were false.

Financial Turmoil and Bankruptcy

Initially, the total judgment against CARD was set at $6 million, but it was adjusted to $3.1 million after accounting for attorney fees, court costs, and interest. The clinic, which had declared bankruptcy following the judgment stemming from the fraud case, found itself operating without paying the owed amount, all due to a settlement reached in bankruptcy court.

BNSF’s spokesperson underscored that the legal recovery process for the judgment must be adhered to. However, CARD’s bankruptcy attorney argued that the railway’s attempts to reclaim the judgment contradict the federal court-approved bankruptcy settlement, putting the future of the clinic in jeopardy.

Community and Health Impact

The closure of CARD has the potential to leave thousands of individuals without necessary screenings and treatments. The clinic’s directors voiced substantial worries about the negative implications for public health, given that fewer screenings for asbestos-related health issues will now take place. Local residents, many of whom are already grappling with health concerns linked to previous asbestos exposure, are left in limbo as the clinic’s assets are secured by county officials pending a further court decision.

BNSF’s legal actions have also been met with criticism, alleging that the company contributed to the pollution that led to numerous health issues within the community. The Libby mine, known for its substantial production of asbestos, has been designated for cleanup under the Superfund program since 2002 due to its hazardous legacy.

The Road Ahead for CARD