The Roundup lawsuit involves thousands of plaintiffs who claim that exposure to Roundup, a widely used herbicide containing glyphosate, has caused them to develop non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other cancers. These lawsuits allege that Monsanto, the original manufacturer of Roundup, and its parent company, Bayer, failed to adequately warn users about the potential health risks associated with glyphosate.
Where things stand at the end of 2024
As of the end of 2024, the status of Roundup lawsuits remains highly active and complex. Here are some key updates:
- Ongoing Litigation: There are still over 4,000 active Roundup lawsuits in federal multidistrict litigation (MDL) in California. Additionally, many victims continue to file cases in state courts nationwide.
- Recent Verdicts: In January 2024, a Philadelphia jury awarded $2.25 billion to a Pennsylvania man who claimed Roundup caused his non-Hodgkin lymphoma, marking the largest Roundup lawsuit verdict to date. However, verdicts have been inconsistent, with some juries siding with Monsanto (now Bayer) and others awarding significant damages to plaintiffs.
- Settlements: Bayer claims it has settled about 114,000 Roundup lawsuits for approximately $11 billion, but around 63,000 cases remain unresolved. The company continues to negotiate settlements and prepare for upcoming trials.
- Health concerns: New research has highlighted potential long-term health risks associated with glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup. Studies have linked glyphosate exposure to neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative conditions, adding to the concerns about its safety.
- Legal developments: Courts have issued mixed rulings on Roundup cases. For example, in August 2024, the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of Monsanto, stating that federal law preempts state law claims regarding cancer warnings on Roundup labels.
Overall, the legal landscape for Roundup lawsuits is dynamic, with ongoing trials, settlements and new claims.
How much is the average claim worth?
The average payout for Roundup lawsuits is around $160,000 per plaintiff. However, actual settlement amounts can vary significantly based on factors such as the severity of the claimant’s illness, medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering and the strength of the evidence presented. Some settlements have ranged from as low as $5,000.
Need to learn more?
Bayer employs an army of attorneys to minimize the amount paid, so working with a law firm with experience representing plaintiffs harmed by the herbicide is crucial. The firm can answer many of your questions and guide clients through the legal process of filing a claim.
