Nadrich Accident Injury Lawyers Supports California Senate Bill SB 20 Addressing Silicosis Increase

On January 20, 2026, Nadrich Accident Injury Lawyers, a personal injury firm with 17 offices throughout California, publicly expressed its support for California Senate Bill SB 20. This significant legislative measure was signed by the Governor on October 13, 2025, and focuses on enhancing protections for workers potentially exposed to silica dust, which can lead to silicosis—a serious and often fatal lung disease.

Silicosis has become a pressing issue in California, particularly in industries that involve stone manufacturing. Nadrich Accident Injury Lawyers points out that the new law directly addresses the same hazards highlighted in numerous ongoing lawsuits related to silicosis, where prolonged exposure to silica dust has resulted in chronic health conditions among workers. Essentially, the law sets forth new guidelines and protections that aim to significantly reduce the risk of silicosis in the workplace.

Key provisions of SB 20 include:
  • - A ban on the "dry cutting" of stone countertops, a process that generates harmful silica dust.
  • - A requirement for employers to provide certifications to Cal/OSHA (California Division of Occupational Safety and Health) proving that they have adequately trained their staff on safe practices regarding silica exposure.
  • - Mandates that the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) engage with affected workers to ensure they are aware of the potential risks involved in their jobs.
  • - Designation of silicosis related to artificial stone as a serious illness, which strengthens compliance responses from Cal/OSHA.

Recent statistics from the CDPH shed light on the severity of this public health issue: since 2019, there have been 481 confirmed silicosis cases and 27 fatalities linked to artificial stone in California. Alarmingly, 98% of these cases involve individuals from Latino communities, with the average age at death being a mere 49 years. Such statistics highlight how gravely this epidemic is affecting vulnerable populations, particularly within Hispanic communities.

The attorneys at Nadrich Accident Injury Lawyers have emphasized the necessity for these updated protections against silica dust, explaining that they reflect an urgent recognition of the serious risks of silicosis. Furthermore, they believe that workers suffering from this condition may have legal avenues to pursue compensation from responsible parties. This is particularly vital for immigrant workers who may feel vulnerable or uncertain about their rights.

Moreover, the law stipulates that manufacturers of artificial stone can be held legally accountable for the health outcomes resulting from their products, paving the way for potentially significant changes in industry practices. With this in mind, Nadrich Accident Injury Lawyers is committed to supporting affected individuals in navigating their options for legal recourse.

Founded in 1990, Nadrich Accident Injury Lawyers has dedicated itself to representing Californians who have suffered injuries from exposure to hazardous materials, including silica dust, asbestos, and other harmful substances. By endorsing Senate Bill SB 20, they hope to further advocate for the safety and health of workers across California, ensuring that this preventable disease is managed with the urgency and seriousness it demands.

For more information or media inquiries, contact:
Jennifer Poole
Marketing Director
(800) 718-4658
[email protected]

Topics Policy & Public Interest)

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