Bayer is intensifying its efforts to seek legislative protection against numerous lawsuits alleging its Roundup weedkiller causes cancer.
David A. Lieb reports for The Associated Press.
In short:
- Bayer faces about 170,000 lawsuits over claims that Roundup's key ingredient, glyphosate, causes non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
- The company has lobbied for state laws to block these claims, but efforts in Missouri, Iowa, and Idaho failed this year.
- Bayer plans to push for similar legislation next year, potentially expanding to other states.
Key quote:
“This is bigger than just those states, and it’s bigger than just Bayer. This is really about the crop protection tools that farmers need to secure production.”
— Jess Christiansen, head of Bayer’s crop science and sustainability communications
Why this matters:
Bayer's legal strategy and potential legislative changes could significantly impact farmers who rely on Roundup, as well as consumers concerned about the product's safety. The outcome may shape the future of pesticide regulations and corporate accountability.
Related EHN coverage:
- WATCH: Investigative reporter talks about Bayer/Monsanto's efforts to discredit her work
- Judge kills Bayer’s plan to limit future Roundup legal liability, issues harsh criticism
- Appeals court rejects Bayer’s bid to overturn Roundup trial loss, slams company for 'reckless disregard' for consumer safety
