Georgia has become the second U.S. state to protect agrochemical giant Bayer from certain lawsuits alleging that its Roundup weed killer causes cancer. The legislation, signed by Governor Brian Kemp, shields pesticide manufacturers who adhere to federal labeling requirements from claims that they failed to warn customers about potential dangers. This follows North Dakota’s similar move last month.
Bayer acquired Roundup through its 2018 purchase of Monsanto and has faced numerous lawsuits over glyphosate, the key ingredient in Roundup, which some studies link to non-Hodgkin lymphoma. While the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency maintains that glyphosate is not likely carcinogenic when used as directed, Bayer has set aside $16 billion to settle cases and stopped using glyphosate in its residential Roundup products. The new Georgia law will take effect January 1, not affecting existing cases like a recent $2.1 billion verdict against Bayer.
Bayer argues that glyphosate is crucial for efficient weed control and preventing soil erosion. Without it, crop yields might decline and food prices could rise. The new law reflects Georgia’s support for its agricultural community.
— new from AP News
