When Funding Isn’t Enough: Schools Must Act on Toxic Hazards

Friedman Rubin has for many years represented clients affected by toxic exposure in the Sky Valley Education Center school — cases that underscore a problematic reality: even when funding is available, too many schools fail to act.

As reported by the Seattle Times, Washington state set aside $1.3 million to help schools remove fluorescent lights containing PCBs, a banned chemical linked to cancer and other serious health issues. Yet only one school district has used the funds. Despite outreach efforts by the Department of Ecology, most districts have left this money untouched, allowing hazardous conditions to persist in classrooms.

This inaction is deeply unsettling. The dangers of PCBs are well-established, and the consequences—illness, disruption, and legal battles—are severe. Our clients know this firsthand.

At Friedman Rubin, we remain committed to holding institutions accountable and advocating for those harmed by environmental negligence.