Information for Parents and Students

The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) is a federal rule passed in 1986. The primary goal of AHERA is to prevent asbestos exposure in schools. 

AHERA applies to all K-12 public and private, non-profit schools. It excludes private for-profit schools.

Fill out the Environmental Complaint Form and send it to us by:
Email: AHERA Help
Fax: 512-483-3414
Mail: AHERA Program
         Environmental Operations Branch - MC 2835
         Texas Department of State Health Services
         P.O. Box 149347
         Austin, TX 78714-9347
                     -or-
         Call us at 512-834-6787

AHERA requires schools to have an asbestos management plan (AMP). An AMP details if and where asbestos-containing building material (ACBM) is present inside school buildings. You can ask to see your school’s AMP to determine if ACBM is present and check its condition. AHERA also requires schools to provide a copy of the AMP within 5 working days of receiving a request.

No. Schools do not need to remove asbestos-containing building material (ACBM) that is in good condition. ACBM poses little to no health risk if left undisturbed and intact. AMPs help schools identify ACBM and take steps to maintain it in good condition to prevent asbestos exposure.