Iowa Senate advances bill shielding pesticide manufacturers from lawsuits

A bill advancing in the Iowa Senate seeks to protect pesticide manufacturers, notably Bayer, from lawsuits related to health risks associated with their products, including Roundup. Senate Study Bill 1051, which passed a subcommittee vote 2-1, would shield these companies from litigation if their products comply with federal labeling requirements. Supporters, including agricultural groups, argue that the bill is necessary to ensure farmers have access to essential weed-killing products and to prevent what they term 'meritless lawsuits.' However, opponents, including environmental groups and some lawmakers, contend that the bill restricts Iowans' ability to seek justice for alleged health issues linked to pesticide exposure. Critics highlight that while the EPA has cleared glyphosate, other studies suggest potential carcinogenic risks, raising concerns about public health safety. The bill's progression follows a similar attempt last year that failed in the House.