A proposed Missouri law seeks to restrict legal actions against pesticide makers, specifically targeting cases linking their products to cancer.
Allison Kite reports for the Missouri Independent.
In short:
- The legislation protects companies like Bayer, maker of Roundup, by stating that EPA approval fulfills their obligation to warn users about carcinogenic risks.
- Despite Bayer's defense of glyphosate's safety and extensive settlements paid, strong opposition has emerged, blending unusual political alliances.
- The bill must pass the Missouri Senate soon but faces obstacles from a bipartisan group of critics who see it as prioritizing corporate interests over public health.
Key quote:
"The fact that Bayer has lobbied not only legislators in Missouri but in three other states…shows that this bill is about protecting a corporation over the citizens of our state."
— Melissa Vatterott, policy director, Missouri Coalition for the Environment
Why this matters:
Critics of the law see it as a dangerous precedent that could undermine public health and environmental safety. By limiting the ability to hold manufacturers accountable, they fear that the risks associated with pesticide exposure may be downplayed or ignored. This is particularly concerning given the body of scientific research that links certain chemicals commonly found in pesticides, like glyphosate, to serious health risks including cancer.
