Context:

Philadelphia's public schools are under federal criminal scrutiny for allegedly failing to inspect eight schools for damaged asbestos, a dangerous material linked to cancer and lung disease. This marks the first instance of a school district in the U.S. facing such accusations under the federal Toxic Substances Control Act. A deferred prosecution agreement has been reached, allowing the district to avoid a grand jury indictment if it complies with federal law, which could lead to the charges being dropped. The school district, which comprises 339 buildings, 300 of which contain asbestos, has already made improvements in policies and procedures related to asbestos management. Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. emphasized the district's commitment to progress, including plans to train workers on asbestos management as part of the agreement.

Dive Deeper:

• Philadelphia's public schools have been charged with eight counts of violating the federal Toxic Substances Control Act for not conducting timely inspections for damaged asbestos in eight schools over a five-year period.

• The charges represent a historic first in the U.S., as no other school district has previously faced federal criminal allegations for environmental issues related to asbestos inspections.

• A deferred prosecution agreement has been put in place, allowing the district to avoid a grand jury indictment, provided they comply with federal law, which could eventually result in the dropping of charges.

• The school district's infrastructure is aging, with 300 out of 339 buildings containing asbestos, necessitating rigorous inspection and management to prevent exposure to students and staff.

• The district has already improved its policies and procedures regarding asbestos inspections and abatement, and Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. acknowledged the deferred prosecution agreement as indicative of their progress.

• As part of the compliance measures, the district plans to train its workers on how to manage asbestos effectively, demonstrating a proactive approach to safeguarding health within its schools.

• Prosecutors highlighted the issue as a 'longstanding and widespread problem' that has previously led to school closures due to asbestos hazards, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and improvement.