Ohio will become the first state that will require workers who were exposed to asbestos or silica dust to demonstrate that they have developed lung cancer or suffered a significant loss of lung function before filing certain asbestos claims, according to the June 30, 2004 issue of Construction Labor Report.

By establishing "minimum medical requirements," the intention is to move the provably ill to the front and to place those with unproved harm in an inactive docket "until their physical condition worsens, at which point they will be allowed to proceed with their suits," reports the publication.

According to the Association of Service and Mechanical Contractors of Southeast Michigan (ASAM), "Organized labor opposes the move, insurance companies favor it." ASAM is promoting "asbestos awareness training" (www.asamsem.org).