Asbestos in school buildings continues to threaten the future health of children. Because of prolonged exposure while their metabolism and activity levels are relatively high and their cellular development is relatively rapid, children and adolescents have a lifetime risk of developing asbestos-related diseases--such as asbestosis, mesothelioma,…

Outlines the significant health problems caused by asbestos materials in school buildings throughout the United States in general and in New York in particular. Describes state and federal statutes and the financial problems that result in noncompliance and argues for available federal funding for asbestos inspection and mandatory removal. (MLF)