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$140B fund for victims of asbestos advances Senate blocks creation of asbestos fund

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WASHINGTON — The Senate rejected an attempt Thursday to keep asbestos cases in the courts, removing one obstacle to the creation of a $140 billion trust fund for paying victims and ending their lawsuits.

Opponents quickly raised another obstacle. Sen. John Ensign, R-Nev., questioned the fund's future costs to taxpayers and asserted that the bill violates budget rules.

The bill would establish a privately funded trust fund, administered through the Labor Department, to compensate asbestos victims.

The fibrous mineral was commonly used until the mid-1970s in insulation and fireproof material. Its tiny fibers can cause cancer and other ailments when inhaled. Disease can take decades to develop.