Monsanto has been dealing with lawsuits involving their product Roundup for some time. Roundup was developed by Monsanto, which was then acquired by Bayer, and has been the subject of many product liability lawsuits. Another issue concerning chemicals used by Monsanto has become the subject of lawsuits in many states, including New Mexico.
Polychlorinated biphenyls, better known as PCBs, are chemicals that were used in a large number of products ranging from electrical transformers, paints, sealants and inks. The PCBs were identified by scientists as likely causes of cancers and other serious illnesses. PCBs became an issue of concern in the 1970s when it was discovered that the chemicals had been illegally dumped into many waterways around the nation, including reservoirs and ponds in New Mexico.
New Mexico is among the states who have opened recent lawsuits against the effects of PCBs. The suits argue that Monsanto created a public nuisance by allowing manufacturers to dump PCBs into public waterways, which poses create a public health risk. The suits also argue that the company should be held liable for the environmental cleanup costs.
While PCBs have not been allowed since the late 1970s, the presence of the chemicals in the environment continues to be a problem. Prolonged exposure is believed to contribute to certain illnesses, including cancer. If a person in New Mexico believes he or she may have been exposed to the chemicals and contracted a serious illness, he or she may wish to consult with a personal injury lawyer. A knowledgeable attorney can review the case and inform the client about what legal options may be available regarding product liability.