fotokostic / Depositphotos.com
North Dakota’s Senate passed House Bill 1318 Monday with a 29-18 vote, providing legal shields for pesticide manufacturers. The bill sparked a small protest outside the Capitol building before the vote. The amended bill returns to the House for approval. The legislation prevents courts from removing properly labeled products from the market, with discussion largely focusing on Roundup. Lawsuits have been filed against the company regarding potential cancer causing chemicals that consumers allegedly weren’t adequately warned about. Supporters, including Sen. Janne Myrdal, argued the bill ensures farmers’ access to necessary chemicals and confirms “the label is the law.” Opponents like Sen. Tim Mathern warned farmers might regret surrendering legal protections if products later prove dangerous. Protesters outside the Capitol, including the Dakota Resource Council, argued the bill makes litigation against chemical companies nearly impossible. Sen. Terry Wanzek defended the measure, claiming without such protections, “any new investment would be chilled” in agricultural chemical development. The bill resembles legislation being considered in several other states.
Comments