Big Agri Wants Same Deal as Big Pharma; No Lawsuits No Matter How Many Die! By Mrs. Abigail Knight (Florida)

 If Big Agri succeeds in the following in America, it will be mechanical that the Australian government will follow suit. In the United States, a growing movement backed by pesticide companies seeks to push legislation that would make it much harder for individuals to sue these companies over health issues caused by pesticide exposure. These proposed laws have sparked intense debates in several farm states, with some farm groups opposing the changes, fearing they would strip farmers and consumers of the ability to hold companies accountable. The conflict is especially pronounced in Iowa, a state with the second-highest rate of new cancer cases, where many believe that the widespread use of pesticides contributes to the state's high cancer rates. Opponents of a proposed Bill in Iowa, which they call the "Cancer Gag Act," are concerned that it would prevent people from suing pesticide manufacturers for failing to warn about potential health risks, as long as the products carry an EPA-approved label.

The Bill, which recently advanced in the state senate, would effectively remove the ability to sue pesticide manufacturers for causing illnesses or injuries related to their products if the pesticides are approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Critics argue that this would prevent farmers from seeking justice if their use of pesticides leads to health issues. Aaron Lehman, president of the Iowa Farmers Union, voiced concern that this would give companies undue power, leaving individuals without recourse in the face of potential harm. Supporters, including major farm groups like the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, contend that the legislation is necessary to protect farmers' access to vital chemicals like herbicides and insecticides, which are critical for food production. They argue that lawsuits often lack scientific evidence and exploit sick people, making it difficult for farmers to use these essential tools.

The debate in Iowa is part of a broader push for legal changes at both the US state and federal levels aimed at shielding pesticide manufacturers from lawsuits related to health concerns. Bayer, the German multinational behind Monsanto's Roundup herbicide, is leading this initiative, having already faced billions of dollars in settlements and verdicts over claims that Roundup causes cancer. Bayer's strategy, which involves lobbying for legislative changes to prevent further lawsuits, is designed to protect the company's investments and ensure farmers can continue using its products without fear of litigation. Bayer has joined forces with more than 360 grower and industry groups to support these measures, both in Iowa and other states, and at the federal level. They argue that as long as pesticides are registered with the EPA and carry an approved label, the companies are fulfilling their duty to warn about potential risks. It is a low hurdle to jump.

In addition to the legislative battles in the states, the EPA is also considering a petition from multiple state attorneys general that seeks to amend federal law to make it harder for individuals to sue pesticide manufacturers. The proposed changes would prevent any state labelling requirements that contradict EPA findings, which would effectively make it more difficult for consumers to pursue legal claims if they believe pesticides have harmed them. The EPA has opened a public comment period on the proposed amendments, which will close on February 20.

The outcome of these efforts remains uncertain, with strong opposition from environmental groups and some lawmakers who argue that the EPA's regulatory system is flawed. Critics point to past instances where pesticide manufacturers have hidden harmful research and pushed dangerous products onto the market, citing concerns about the reliability of industry-led studies used by the EPA. Despite a flood of advertising by Bill supporters, opposition remains strong in Iowa, and polling suggests that the public may not support the changes. The Bill is expected to pass the state Senate, but its future in the House remains uncertain, and the battle continues to unfold in both state and federal arenas. Hopefully then it will be defeated, but Big Agri will not be giving up on this one. Robert Kennedy Jr to the rescue?

https://childrenshealthdefense.org/defender/cancer-gag-act-protect-pesticide-companies-lawsuits-cg/