WASHINGTON - Montana Sen. Max Baucus enlisted some expert help this week while trying to get Congress to agree to fair compensation for Libby people harmed by asbestos.

Dr. Brad Black, head of the Libby-based Center for Asbestos Related Diseases, is in Washington this week meeting with senators and staff members about the Fairness in Asbestos Injury Resolution Act designed to reform how asbestos lawsuits are handled across the country.

Black, Baucus and Libby residents want an additional test included to ensure that all Libby residents affected by asbestos exposure are compensated.

"I'm committed to getting this test in the bill," said Baucus. "We are in a major fight over this provision. That's why it's important Dr. Black is here to explain why the circumstances in Libby are unique and need this extra test."

Baucus, Montana Sen. Conrad Burns and Dr. Black were slated to meet with Sen. Tom Coburn (R-Okla.) of the Senate Judiciary Committee late Thursday. The Senate is expected to begin deliberations on the FAIR bill Monday.

"I want to make sure people here understand the disease in Libby and some of the important concerns when dealing with people in Libby," Black said.

Baucus' proposal would take into account the unique circumstances surrounding Libby, where residents were exposed to asbestos fibers by the W.R. Grace Co. operating a vermiculite mine there until 1990. It would, among other things, provide ailing Libby residents with at least $400,000 in compensation.