A significant rise in PFAS-related lawsuits is expected, potentially surpassing asbestos litigation in scope and cost.
Hiroko Tabuchi reports for The New York Times.
In short:
- PFAS chemicals, used in many consumer products, have been linked to serious health risks and are found in the environment and human blood.
- Legal experts warn of an impending wave of litigation against companies using PFAS, advising them to prepare.
- The Biden administration has started regulating PFAS, increasing pressure on companies to manage their contamination.
Key quote:
“Do what you can, while you can, before you get sued.”
— Brian Gross, defense lawyer at MG+M The Law Firm
Why this matters:
As the awareness of "forever chemicals" spreads, the legal landscape is bracing for a surge of lawsuits that could dwarf the asbestos litigation saga of the 20th century. PFAS have been linked to serious health issues, prompting individuals and communities to seek justice for the contamination of their water supplies and the subsequent health impacts.The expected legal battles could drive corporate accountability and prompt stricter environmental regulations.
