In recent years, Monsanto, now owned by Bayer AG, has faced a barrage of lawsuits related to its weedkiller Roundup. Allegations have linked Roundup to cancer, leading to a significant legal battle for the company.
As of January 2024, Monsanto has settled nearly 100,000 Roundup lawsuits, totaling around $11 billion. These settlements represent about 80% of all pending Roundup claims, with approximately 40,000 to 50,000 lawsuits still active, primarily in state courts. Additionally, over 4,000 claims in the MDL Roundup class action lawsuit remain pending in California.
February 28, 2024 – Cloud Verdict Expected: A verdict is expected in the Cloud case in Delaware, a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of a South Carolina man. Plaintiffs’ attorneys are seeking $142 million in punitive damages, citing conduct by Monsanto that they argue recklessly violated public trust and should be punished.
The legal saga surrounding Roundup serves as a stark reminder of the importance of corporate responsibility and the potential consequences of product negligence. As Bayer continues to navigate these legal challenges, the outcomes of ongoing trials and settlements will undoubtedly shape the future landscape of both the company and the broader conversation around consumer safety and accountability in the agricultural industry.
