Pharmaceutical giant Bayer has been ordered to pay $2.25 billion to a Pennsylvania man, John McKivision, who claims he developed cancer due to exposure to the company's popular weedkiller, Roundup. The jury in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas found that McKivision's non-Hodgkins lymphoma was a direct result of using Roundup for yard work over several years.
The substantial verdict includes $250 million in compensatory damages and a staggering $2 billion in punitive damages. Attorneys for McKivision, Tom Kline and Jason Itkin, emphasized that the punitive damages send a strong message calling for a comprehensive overhaul within the multinational corporation.
Bayer Disagrees and Plans to Appeal
Bayer responded to the verdict, expressing disagreement with the jury's decision. The company argued that the ruling contradicts scientific evidence and global regulatory assessments. Bayer intends to appeal the decision, aiming to overturn the verdict and reduce the awarded damages, citing previous instances where damages were significantly reduced.
This verdict follows five other victories against Bayer last year in lawsuits related to Roundup. While the company won the most recent trial in December, it marks the 10th win in the last 16 Roundup trials. Approximately 165,000 claims have been filed in the U.S. against Bayer, with most plaintiffs alleging a link between Roundup and non-Hodgkins lymphoma.
Bayer has maintained that Roundup, including its active ingredient glyphosate, is safe for human use, pointing to decades of studies supporting its position. Roundup, one of the most widely used weedkillers in the United States, ceased home sales last year, reflecting the company's evolving strategy.
Settlements and Future Legal Challenges
In 2020, Bayer settled most pending Roundup cases for up to $9.6 billion but failed to secure a settlement for future cases. Over 50,000 claims remain unresolved. The recent string of losses, totaling over $2 billion, has prompted Bayer to appeal the verdicts, citing potential reductions in punitive damages following U.S. Supreme Court guidance.
The legal setbacks have led some investors to question Bayer's legal approach in Roundup cases. Despite speculation about breaking off its crop science business due to Roundup liability concerns, Bayer announced earlier this month that it would temporarily set aside those plans and focus on internal reorganization.
With more Roundup trials expected later this year, the litigation landscape remains challenging for Bayer. The company faces ongoing legal battles as it navigates the complexities of addressing Roundup-related claims while seeking to maintain its business operations and reputation.
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