Silicosis is a life-altering lung disease that results from inhaling silica dust, a substance frequently encountered by stone countertop fabricators. These workers are often exposed to dangerous levels of silica while cutting and polishing stone. Recognizing the urgent need for legal protection and health assistance for this at-risk group, MLG has taken substantial legal action since 2022. In this post, we will examine MLG’s transformative achievements in silicosis litigation in California over recent years.
The Beginning: A Legal Stand in 2022
In 2022, MLG made a groundbreaking move by filing the first silicosis case dedicated to stone countertop fabricators in California. This legal effort went beyond the courtroom; it was a powerful statement addressing the health risks faced by these fabricators. For instance, studies show that approximately 10% of fabricators are likely to develop silicosis due to prolonged exposure to silica dust. MLG aimed to hold negligent manufacturers responsible for the dangers posed by their products, significantly raising awareness of the issue.
By highlighting the harsh realities that fabricators endure, MLG sparked conversations among stakeholders about the need for preventative measures in the industry.
Coordinating Efforts: A Petition in 2023
In 2023, MLG reaffirmed its commitment to justice by filing the first Petition to Coordinate cases of silicosis among countertop fabricators in California. This strategic move aimed to simplify the legal process for multiple fabricators who were facing similar health challenges. Coordinating these cases created a unified front against manufacturers, ensuring that the collective struggles of fabricators were highlighted.
The success of this petition allowed hundreds of fabricators to seek justice more efficiently. It emphasized the importance of collective action in challenging a systemic issue that has plagued the industry for years.
Life-Saving Interventions: Lung Transplants in 2024
A remarkable milestone occurred in 2024 when MLG facilitated double lung transplants for ten countertop fabricators suffering from severe silicosis. This represented the largest number of transplants documented in a single year for this group. MLG’s involvement in coordinating these life-saving procedures was critical, especially considering that lung transplants typically have a success rate of around 80% for patients with similar medical backgrounds.
These transplants not only changed the lives of these ten workers but also underscored the critical need for comprehensive healthcare support for those affected by workplace hazards.
A Landmark Verdict: 2024’s First Successful Case
In the same year, MLG achieved a significant legal victory by securing a landmark verdict for a countertop fabricator who had undergone a double lung transplant after a severe bout of silicosis. This verdict served as a pivotal moment, acknowledging the severe impact of silicosis as a workplace-related health issue. It was the first case in California to receive such recognition, illustrating the courts’ willingness to address the critical challenges faced by workers in dangerous environments.
The outcome of this case also set a precedent for future claims, fostering an environment that encourages other workers to seek justice for similar health challenges.
Financial Milestones: Settlements in 2025
Building on its previous successes, MLG achieved multi-million dollar settlements in 2025, exceeding the eight-figure mark for the first countertop fabricator silicosis case to settle before trial in California. Settling outside of court provides a significant benefit, as nearly 60% of cases that go to trial can take over two years before resolution. Swift settlements like these mean immediate financial relief for those affected.
Such financial assistance not only supports the healthcare needs of workers but also serves as a critical reminder to manufacturers about their responsibilities regarding worker safety.
Industry Engagement: The First Litigation Conference
In 2025, MLG chaired the first Stone Countertop Fabricator Silicosis litigation conference organized by HarrisMartin Publishers in California. The event brought together legal experts, health advocates, and industry stakeholders to address ongoing challenges related to silicosis in the workplace. With over 150 participants, the conference fostered vital discussions on protective regulations and compensation for affected workers.
This event also acted as a platform for sharing insights and experiences, enhancing collaboration among those dedicated to advocating for fabricators’ rights.
Advocating for Rights: California Values Act Motion
In a significant legal maneuver, MLG filed the first motion in the Stone Countertop Fabricator Silicosis cases pursuant to the California Values Act. This motion aimed to secure fabricators’ rights to access the courts without fear of deportation. Manufacturers and their legal representatives were prohibited from contacting ICE during trials, ensuring that fabricators could pursue justice without additional barriers.
This important safeguard highlighted MLG’s commitment to protecting the rights of vulnerable workers, allowing them to seek the justice they deserve without the added worry of immigration issues.
A Path Forward for Justice and Advocacy
MLG’s tireless efforts in silicosis litigation shed light on the critical need for advocacy and support for stone countertop fabricators in California. Their work—from pioneering landmark cases and facilitating life-saving medical procedures to achieving significant settlements and fostering important industry dialogue—represents more than just legal victories.
These accomplishments underscore a growing recognition of the unique challenges this workforce faces and emphasize the need to prioritize their health and rights. MLG’s ongoing mission serves as a hopeful reminder that with determined advocacy, meaningful change is possible in the lives of those they strive to protect. The road to justice is still in progress, but the actions undertaken thus far illuminate a brighter, safer future for all countertop fabricators.