After man wins cancer lawsuit, new bill could protect pesticide companies
A controversial bill awaiting the approval of Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp has sparked outrage among supporters of the “Make America Healthy Again” movement. Critics argue that the bill, known as Georgia SB 144, would hinder lawsuits against pesticide companies, ultimately posing a threat to public health.
The bill states that manufacturers cannot be held liable for failing to warn consumers of health risks that exceed those mandated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency in relation to pesticides. This provision has raised concerns among advocates like Emma Post, a spokesperson for MAHA Action based in Los Angeles, who believes that the bill will have detrimental effects on the health of Americans.
The legislation comes in the wake of a recent case in which Bayer Monsanto, the producer of the popular Roundup weed killer, was ordered by a Georgia jury to pay nearly $2.1 billion in damages to a man who claims the product caused his cancer. This verdict has reignited the debate surrounding the safety of glyphosate, a key ingredient in Roundup that has been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
Studies have shown that exposure to glyphosate can raise the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma by 41%. Kelly Ryerson, founder of Glyphosate Facts and a vocal critic of the herbicide, has highlighted the potential dangers associated with the widespread use of glyphosate in agriculture. She warns that glyphosate can contaminate food, water, and air, posing a serious threat to public health.
Ryerson’s advocacy work has focused on opposing legislation that would shield pesticide companies from lawsuits, such as the bill currently under consideration in Georgia. She emphasizes the need for stricter regulations and greater accountability in the agricultural sector to protect consumers from harmful chemicals like glyphosate.
Meanwhile, farmers Dana and Lauren Cavalea of Freedom Farms in New York have chosen to eschew chemical pesticides in favor of sustainable farming practices. They emphasize the importance of preserving the environment and ensuring the safety of their products for consumers.
In response to the backlash against glyphosate, a spokesperson for Monsanto/Bayer has defended the safety of Roundup products, citing scientific evidence and regulatory approvals. However, critics argue that these reassurances are insufficient and call for greater transparency and accountability in the pesticide industry.
As the debate over pesticide regulation continues to unfold, it is clear that the health and well-being of consumers are at stake. The “Make America Healthy Again” movement seeks to raise awareness about the risks associated with harmful chemicals like glyphosate and advocate for stronger protections for public health. It remains to be seen whether Gov. Kemp will approve the controversial bill, or if additional measures will be taken to safeguard the health of Americans.
