Attorney General Alan Wilson urges asbestos trusts to halt destruction of crucial documents

(COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson led a coalition of 14 other attorneys general across the country in raising serious concerns about reports that certain asbestos bankruptcy trusts are planning to destroy documents and data related to past claims and compensation payments. 

In a letter sent this week to several asbestos bankruptcy trusts, Attorney General Wilson urged an immediate halt to any planned data and document destruction. The letter notes that while efforts to protect personal and sensitive information are commendable, the wholesale elimination of these records could have far-reaching and damaging consequences. 

“These documents play a vital role in ensuring fairness and transparency in asbestos litigation,” said Attorney General Wilson. “They are often essential for verifying claims, uncovering fraud, and protecting the integrity of the legal process—not to mention safeguarding taxpayer funds.” 

Several states have enacted laws to improve transparency in asbestos trust claims. Destroying relevant records could directly undermine the effectiveness of those laws and potentially obstruct the ability of individuals and the courts to fairly adjudicate cases. 

The letter also references judicial rulings that support the relevance and discoverability of trust claim records in determining liability and causation in asbestos cases. In some instances, the trusts’ data have been used both to support and refute claims of asbestos exposure. 

Further compounding concerns, recent reporting has suggested that the destruction may be aimed at avoiding compliance with future subpoenas. “If these allegations are true, they are deeply troubling,” Attorney General Wilson said. “We hope the trusts take these concerns seriously and do what is right—not just legally, but ethically.” 

The Attorney General’s Office will continue to monitor this issue closely and stands ready to take further action if necessary to protect the interests of South Carolinians and preserve the rule of law. 

Attorney General Wilson led the letter and was joined by the attorneys general from Alabama, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Ohio, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Read the full letter here.