Bayer, a German multinational corporation, acquired US agrochemical company Monsanto seven years ago, acquiring its extensive seed and pesticide portfolio as well as over 100,000 lawsuits related to allegations that Monsanto’s Roundup herbicide causes cancer. Bayer has already expended billions in settlements related to these cases and is seeking to end ongoing litigation and prevent future claims.
Recent developments indicate that Bayer may be gaining support, particularly from Republican congressional leaders advocating for laws that would protect pesticide manufacturers from lawsuits. The Modern Ag Alliance, an organization established by Bayer, is actively lobbying for legislative measures that seek to create liability shields. The alliance argues these measures are essential for allowing farmers to use necessary agricultural chemicals.
Currently, some state legislatures have enacted laws that restrict pesticide-related lawsuits, with Georgia and North Dakota being notable examples. The alliance is working to spread such laws across all states while focusing on Congress, where proposed provisions in a federal appropriations bill have sparked controversy. Advocates for consumer rights express concerns over these provisions, fearing that they would limit legal options for individuals injured by harmful chemicals.
Bayer has emphasized that regulatory changes are crucial for their business continuity, claiming that uncertainty around lawsuits impacts their investments. They argue that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) should oversee product safety and what warnings are required on labels. While Bayer contends that the language in the appropriations bill does not impede legal recourse, critics assert it could obstruct states from issuing warnings that diverge from outdated federal assessments.
Additionally, concerns over chemical safety and industry immunity from litigation have drawn bipartisan attention. With the potential inclusion of similar protective language in upcoming farm bills, discussions continue about the balance between farmers’ needs and consumer safety. Lawmakers and advocates from both sides express alarm over what they see as efforts to diminish legal protections for individuals affected by pesticides.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/27/republican-pesticide-legislation