In 2020, Bayer proposed a $10.9 billion settlement to resolve approximately 100,000 lawsuits alleging that Roundup, containing glyphosate, could elevate the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and related cancers.
By June 2023, Bayer settled environmental claims filed by the New York Attorney General for $6.9 million, addressing allegations of Roundup’s safety misrepresentation. Funds from this settlement are designated for initiatives to mitigate the impact of pesticides on pollinators and aquatic species.
Despite Bayer’s offer of about $2 billion to settle Roundup class-action claims and future claims, San Francisco District Judge Vince Chhabria denied the offer in 2021, citing its inadequacy in providing lasting compensation for future claimants and limiting the ability to seek punitive damages.
Prior to offering a settlement, Monsanto/Bayer faced significant losses in California trials, including multimillion-dollar awards in August 2018, March 2019, and May 2019, but began winning cases thereafter, securing its first trial victory in St. Louis in September 2022.
The global Roundup settlement amount stands at $10.9 billion, with individual payouts estimated between $5,000 and $250,000 based on the severity of injuries. Experts anticipate an average settlement of approximately $160,000 per plaintiff.
Several factors influence the amount of a Roundup settlement, including the strength of evidence, duration and intensity of Roundup exposure, and proof of negligence on the part of Monsanto/Bayer. The settlement matrix, typically used by claims administrators, assigns point values to claims based on injury severity, age, and other factors, with higher points correlating to higher settlements.
The Roundup settlement process involves steps such as providing supporting documentation to the Special Master, who then assesses the claim and issues a written settlement offer. Plaintiffs have the option to accept or reject the offer, with no penalty for rejection.
To qualify for a Roundup settlement, individuals must meet specific criteria, including a history of significant Roundup exposure, a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma or a qualifying cancer, and adherence to statute of limitations guidelines. It’s essential to consult a Roundup lawyer promptly to explore eligibility and preserve legal rights.
