Roundup Weed Killer Lawsuit: What You Need to Know

The Roundup Weed Killer lawsuit is ongoing. There are currently thousands of plaintiffs who are suing Monsanto alleging their Roundup product caused them harm.

Overview of the Roundup Weed Killer Lawsuit

The Roundup weed killer lawsuit is an ongoing class-action suit, currently occupying courts in the US, alleging that Monsanto’s Roundup weed killer product caused cancer among its users. The active ingredient in Roundup weed killer is glyphosate, which the World Health Organization (WHO) has listed as a “probable human carcinogen”. Plaintiffs of this lawsuit have argued that glyphosate’s presence in Roundup made them ill, or contributed to the development of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in their bodies. Monsanto and its parent company, Bayer AG, have denied these allegations, instead arguing that there is no scientific evidence to support the link between Roundup and cancer. These defense claims cite studies from WHO and other regulatory agencies that assert that glyphosate is safe for human use in small doses.

Monsanto and Bayer have requested ‘summary judgement’ on many occasions, seeking dismissal of the cases due to lack of sufficient evidence against them. However the plaintiff legal team, representing those affected by Roundup exposure, argue that additional testimony and testimonies yet to be heard will provide further proof of Monsanto/Bayer’s recklessness towards consumers’ safety. As such far three separate rounds of jury trials have resulted in total damages awarded to plaintiffs in excess of $2 billion.

The debate over whether glyphosate and/or Roundup are responsible for causing cancer continues as more people step forward with reports of developing cancers after using it. Despite numerous cases taken against Monsanto/Bayer, both companies remain adamant that the science does not support the alleged connection between glyphosate and cancer; yet thousands suing them still hope to hold them accountable for their allegedly negligent behavior.

Moving forward with this complex and multi-faceted case, the next section takes an in-depth look at Monsanto & Bayer’s role in the lawsuit.

Monsanto & Bayer’s Role in the Lawsuit

Monsanto and Bayer have been at the center of the Roundup weed killer lawsuit since the original case was launched in 2018. Monsanto is the maker of Roundup, which it initially released to market in 1974 and was later acquired by German chemical giant Bayer AG in 2018. Monsanto has maintained that Roundup’s active ingredient glyphosate is safe for use and they deny any claims that it causes health problems, including cancer.

Bayer has also denied that glyphosate poses any risk to human health, though it did recently agree to pay $11 billion dollars to settle more than 125,000 Roundup-related lawsuits. However, this settlement does not include an admission of liability or wrongdoing on the part of either Monsanto or Bayer, who still maintain that their product is safe.

On the other side of the argument, many studies support claims that exposure to glyphosate, even at low levels, can increase cancer risk. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans” in 2015 and studies since then have shown a correlation between glyphosate and cancer rates. Further research is needed to definitively determine whether there is a causal relationship between Roundup and cancer.

Given these contrasting positions from both sides of the argument, only further research and scientific evidence will determine whether Monsanto and Bayer are liable for damages related to alleged Roundup-related cancers. Moving forward, this section will explore Roundup’s possible link with cancer and health effects on users of the product.

Roundup’s Link to Cancer & Harmful Health Effects

Roundup Weed Killer, an herbicide created by Monsanto in the mid-1970s and now owned by Bayer AG, has been subject to numerous lawsuits claiming that its key active ingredient, glyphosate, is carcinogenic. A growing body of evidence suggests glyphosate may pose a health risk to humans and animals exposed to the chemical.

The first lawsuit against Roundup in 2015 concerned groundskeeper DeWayne Johnson. This case concluded with a jury awarding Johnson $289 million after determining that exposure to Roundup had caused him to develop non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of cancer affecting the lymphatic system. Since this decision, many other people have filed claims against Bayer and Monsanto alleging that exposure to Roundup caused them to develop cancer or sustain significant illnesses.

Many experts argue that glyphosate does not pose any immediate risks of human harm when used as directed. An extensive review of animal studies revealed that some studies noted an increased risk for certain types of cancer in rats who received massive amounts of glyphosate over prolonged exposure. However, these results were supported mostly in male rats since female rats did not demonstrate similar responses when exposed to similar levels of the chemical.

Additionally, hundreds of epidemiological studies conducted on agricultural workers exposed the chemical do not point toward any association between glyphosate and cancer within their working environment. The World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) reviewed case-control studies covering high exposures to glyphosate and concluded that it was “not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity” as evidence of carcinogenicity was contradictory between individual studies.

Overall, while most international bodies have found that there is no substantial evidence linking glyphosate consumption with human carcinogenicity or any other health effects, a considerable amount of research still points toward affirming a correlation between heavy exposure to the chemical in question and various forms of cancer such as non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and Multiple Myeloma.

While both sides still have convincing arguments regarding glyphosate’s safety when used as directed and its potential link with cancer, further testing and debate on the topic is required before any firm conclusions can be drawn. The evidence supporting the dangers posed by Roundup Weed Killer leads us into the next section discussing what information has been presented in court proceedings which suggest significant health risks for those exposed to the herbicide.

• As of May 2020, it is estimated that Bayer / Monsanto have paid out more than $11 billion in settlements, fines, and legal costs related to Roundup lawsuits.
• In 2020, a California jury awarded a plaintiff who alleged that using Roundup caused his cancer with $27.25 million in compensatory damages.
• In 2019, two Roundup users were awarded nearly $2 billion by a California jury for developing non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after using the weedkiller.

Evidence Supporting Health Risks

In 2019, the World Health Organization declared glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, a “probable carcinogen.” The European Chemicals Agency also classified glyphosate as a substance “with suspected endocrine-disrupting properties.” These findings have been used by plaintiffs in numerous lawsuits bringing forward claims against Monsanto/Bayer, the manufacturers of Roundup.

Various organizations across the United States and world, including Environmental Working Group (EWG) and other environmental organizations, as well as universities and government programs, have completed studies on the health risks associated with glyphosate. Many of these studies include significant evidence showing reasonable links between exposure to the chemical and several different forms of cancer. For example, a large-scale population study conducted by Kaiser Permanente found that women regularly exposed to glyphosate had a 40% increased risk for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma compared to those who did not use Roundup.

On the other hand, there are competing studies on both sides of this debate that have reached different conclusions. Although some suggest that chronic or repeated exposure to glyphosate may increase cancer risk among humans, other researchers have determined that while high levels of exposure may pose a health threat to humans, normal consumer exposure is relatively safe.

Despite the conflicting findings, these studies have lead to a growing call from consumer watchdogs, researchers and scientists for further investigation into the potential health risks associated with long-term exposure to Roundup weed killer. Considering these results and their implications for public safety, it is clear why plaintiff lawsuits alleging personal injury due to glyphosate prevail in court hearings at times.

These findings from scientific research point to an important finding: more investigation into the long term health effects of Roundup is needed in order to concretely determine if exposure poses any real risk of harm to human health. All primary evidence should be carefully considered before a final verdict alters Monsanto/Bayer’s role in this topic for generations to come. The next section will explore some of the latest findings from competing studies on this issue: Findings from Competing Studies

Findings from Competing Studies

The debate about the possible toxicity of Roundup Weed Killer is ongoing and complex, with many studies conducted to assess the possible health implications associated with long-term use of the product. A systematic review of data from 2018 found that exposure to glyphosate was associated with increased risk for certain forms of cancer, including non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, malignant melanoma and other forms of blood cancer. On the other hand, a review by the Environmental Protection Agency in 2019 concluded that there was not sufficient evidence to link glyphosate to any disease.

In addition to assessing risk associated with diseases, some studies have examined the effect of glyphosate on other animals such as bees and aquatic wildlife. Long-term exposure to Roundup Weed Killer has been linked to declines in bee populations and disruption in their reproductive systems. Likewise, studies have shown that residues of glyphosate can accumulate in ponds and lakes, creating an environment that is toxic to smaller fish and other aquatic organisms.

The findings from competing studies further add complexity to assessing potential risks associated with Roundup Weed Killer over time. While some research suggests serious health issues, others conclude there is not enough evidence yet to link it to any medical condition. Moving forward, more longitudinal studies will be needed to better understand these possibilities.

Next we’ll take a look at Roundup Weed Killer settlement details for those affected by various diseases or illnesses associated with the product.

Roundup Weed Killer Settlement Details

As of May 2020, Monsanto, maker of the once-popular Roundup Weed Killer, has settled a large number of lawsuits related to its product. In total, the company has agreed to pay out nearly $10 billion in settlements. Most recently, it finalized an agreement with more than 1 million current and former users of Roundup who allege that their usage of the product caused them to develop non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).

Monsanto denies any claims that Roundup causes NHL; however, they have acknowledged that public opinion, especially scientific studies linking Roundup to cancer, could damage the company’s reputation and financial success.

The settlement involves both class-action suits and individual cases. In the class-action suit, those affected can receive up to $200 per container but not more than $25,000 per person. However, those bringing individual claims can be awarded much higher awards depending on their personal circumstances.

Those in favor of the settlement argue that while it is a large sum of money for Monsanto to pay out, it offers a level of closure for many individuals and families who have been struggling with health issues related to glyphosate exposure. It also acknowledges that Monsanto had a hand in these individuals’ suffering and commits them to paying for medical costs and related expenses.

On the other hand, those against the settlement claim that it does not go far enough in ensuring restitution as mere direct economic losses and doesn’t take other issues into consideration like damages associated with emotional distress or long-term effects on one’s quality of life. With all this being said, critics question whether $10 billion will be enough to repair all of the damage done by Roundup over several decades and ultimately do justice for all those harmed by the product.

Now that the details surrounding Roundup Weed Killer settlement has been discussed, let’s move on to discussing compensation for injured plaintiffs in the next section.

Compensation for Injured Plaintiffs

The Roundup Weed Killer lawsuit has led to thousands of plaintiffs claiming that they have been injured and incurred losses due to the use of the product. Those who have used the weed killer in their gardens, lawns, and farms have made claims that their health has suffered because it contains glyphosate – a potentially carcinogenic chemical. Plaintiffs may be seeking damages for physical illnesses caused by using Roundup, as well as emotional distress due to being exposed to a potentially dangerous product.

The potential compensation for those suing can vary depending on the individual circumstances of the case. For example, if a plaintiff is diagnosed with an illness and wins his or her case, that person may be awarded some money in punitive damages. Punitive damages are awarded to punish reckless behavior on part of the defendant such as Monsanto in this case. This can result in higher payouts than in other types of legal cases where damages are awarded solely on economic losses or physical injuries suffered.

However, there are some critics of this type of litigation who say that awarding large amounts of money to those suing leads to unsustainable judicial costs and hurts those at the bottom financially speaking by driving up prices to account for these awards. Critics claim that plaintiffs should focus on medical treatment rather than monetary awards, however those affected believe they should be able to seek justice and be compensated for their losses.

At present, it is difficult to estimate what kind of financial compensation will be possible upon conclusion of any settlement or resolution. The proceedings of each individual suit will ultimately determine how much each plaintiff receives after being successful in court.

Leading into “Proceedings of the Roundup Weed Killer Lawsuit”, it is important to gain a comprehensive understanding of how one can sue Monsanto for injuries related to their products, as well as what sort of compensation may be expected from a successful lawsuit.

Proceedings of the Roundup Weed Killer Lawsuit

The case against Roundup Weed Killer has been a long and complicated process. On February 26, 2019, Judge Vince Chhabria of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California accepted the federal jury verdict which found that Monsanto had failed to warn consumers about the potential risks of using their product Roundup Weed Killer. The plaintiffs argued that Monsanto was aware of the risks posed by the active ingredient in Roundup, glyphosate, yet they continued to sell it knowing those risks. On behalf of more than 800 people who have used Roundup and have developed cancer, the plaintiffs argued that Monsanto should have warned them about possible health risks associated with its use.

Monsanto has vigorously defended itself against this lawsuit, claiming that it did not need to warn its consumers because glyphosate is safe when used as directed and no scientific evidence exists proving it causes cancer in humans. It also cites numerous studies conducted by several different regulatory bodies around the world that have shown there is no causal link between glyphosate and cancer. Monsanto argued that Roundup is less toxic than everyday household items such as baking soda or table salt and should not be grouped in with these dangerous products. However, over 35 years of research suggests otherwise and plaintiff attorneys continue to assert that Monsanto knew about these dangers all along yet chose to conceal them from its customers.

Throughout the course of this lawsuit, there have been multiple proceedings which resulted in both parties presenting their arguments before a jury. However, over 70 trials were paused after Judge Chhabria ruled in favor of Monsanto on two points, namely: (1) whether or not there was sufficient evidence to show causation; and (2) whether or not personal jurisdiction applied due to the fact that plaintiffs resided outside California where trial took place. While thousands of individual cases remain pending, everyone awaits further proceedings and an eventual ruling by a higher court on these important issues.

These proceedings and debates surrounding Roundup Weed Killer are just beginning to take shape and much more is yet to come in the form of hearings, court processes, legal decisions, and appeals. In the next section, we will explore each step of the hearing and court process involved in this ongoing lawsuit against Monsanto’s use of glyphosate-based products such as Roundup Weed Killer.

Hearings and Court Process

The hearing and court process for Roundup Weed Killer Lawsuit have been lengthy and emotional. Plaintiffs have argued that manufacturer Monsanto failed to include cancer-causing warnings on labels, made false claims about the safety of the product, and created a risk of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) from exposure to glyphosate. Monsanto has defended its product by claiming that it is safe when used according to directions, that the scientific evidence supporting these lawsuits is weak, and that they were not obligated to warn consumers of potential dangers.

A federal judge initially heard all six cases together in consolidated litigation in 2018 but has since bifurcated the cases into two phases – one regarding liability and one regarding damages. After reviewing an mountain of available evidence – including witness testimony, expert opinions and internal documents – it was ultimately determined that Monsanto should be held liable for failing to adequately warn consumers of potential health risks associated with Roundup Weed Killer.

Now jury members are tasked with determining how much compensation each plaintiff should receive as a result of their claim. Subsequent rulings have found against Monsanto on numerous other occasions, awarding millions of dollars in compensatory and punitive damages to individuals who brought forward successful legal action.

This section will provide a closer look at the hearings and court process leading up to potentially monumental findings for any future plaintiffs or lone whistleblowers taking on companies who may be endangering public health: the final Roundup Weed Killer verdict.

Final Roundup Weed Killer Verdict

In May of 2019, the first Round up Lawsuit to reach trial resulted in a $2 billion verdict against Monsanto, the makers of Roundup. The jury found that Monsanto had intentionally withheld information about the product’s links to cancer and had acted with “malice or oppression” towards consumers who used their weed killer.

This decision was seen as a major victory for thousands of people who have been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma after using Roundup. They argued that Monsanto did not properly warn users of the potential dangers associated with the product, nor did they properly study the carcinogenic effects it could cause.

Monsanto countered these claims by stating that there is no scientific evidence linking their products to any health risks and that its weed killer is safe to use when instructions are followed correctly. They noted that other chemicals such as glyphosate can also be carried in a variety of products and that there may be factors beyond their control when it comes to the development of cancer in humans exposed to those compounds.

The $2 billion award represented compensatory and punitive damages, which was more than plaintiffs originally sought. It sends a powerful message to companies everywhere that failing to properly assess the health risks associated with their products could lead to costly litigation in court. This case has been closely followed by consumer advocacy groups and by legal professionals who will be watching subsequent trials involving Roundup to see how courts ultimately rule on this matter.

Common Questions and Their Answers

What are the alleged risks associated with Roundup weed killer?

The primary risk associated with Roundup weed killer is the potential for developing certain types of cancer, including non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Numerous international and independent studies have linked glyphosate – the active ingredient in Roundup and other similar herbicides – to an increased risk of this type of cancer. In addition, the use of Roundup has been linked to damage to beneficial bacteria in soil and water systems, as well as other environmental impacts. Given the potential negative impacts associated with its use, Roundup should be used responsibly in accordance with manufacturer directions, local ordinances, and safety protocols.

Who is the plaintiff in the Roundup weed killer lawsuit?

The plaintiff in the Roundup weed killer lawsuit is thousands of individuals from all over the United States who have claimed that Monsanto’s glyphosate-based herbicide has caused them to develop certain forms of cancer. Several scientific studies have linked the active ingredient in Roundup, glyphosate, to an increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other cancers, leading to a wave of lawsuits against Monsanto, which was later acquired by Bayer AG in 2018. Individuals are claiming that Monsanto knew about glyphosate’s carcinogenic properties yet failed to warn the public or take appropriate measures to protect consumers, resulting in these individuals developing cancer. As a result, they are suing for damages and compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering and lost wages due to the alleged misconduct of Monsanto.

What is the outcome of the Roundup weed killer lawsuit?

The outcome of the Roundup weed killer lawsuit is that Bayer AG, who purchased Roundup’s manufacturer Monsanto in 2018, recently agreed to settle their current and potential lawsuits with a collective $10.9 billion.

The landmark settlement includes payments to over 95,000 plaintiffs who claim that Roundup’s main ingredient, glyphosate, caused them to develop cancer such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Bayer also established a fund of around $1.25 billion for future claims, along with additional costs for legal fees.

Bayer still insists that its product is safe, but the large settlement reflects the difficulty in proving this speculation in court. These cases will be the first test for Bayer’s newly adopted strategy of settling cases instead of going through lengthy trials. It is currently estimated that more than 11 million cases against Monsanto remain unresolved.