Environmental Protection Agency public health emergency in Helena , Montana . During Jackson 's confirmation hearing in January , Montana Sen. Max Baucus said the valley 's 12,000 residents had been `` hung out to dry '' and pressed Jackson to review the issue . Asbestos contamination in the town blamed for the deaths , officials say . Move will offer more aid to town ; cleanup been going on for several years . Mine operator has been acquitted of criminal charges ; has paid compensation for cleanup .
Environmental Protection Agency public health emergency in Helena , Montana . Asbestos contamination in the town blamed for the deaths , officials say . Move will offer more aid to town ; cleanup been going on for several years . Mine operator has been acquitted of criminal charges ; has paid compensation for cleanup .