TAKE ACTION to Ensure Pesticide Makers Remain Liable

Florida legislation, HB 129, and SB 992, stand to remove the ability of citizens to hold pesticide makers liable for injuries caused by pesticides bearing an EPA-approved label under the federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). On Thursday, April 3rd, the House Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee passed HB 129 (10:4) and has now moved onto the House Housing Agriculture & Tourism Subcommittee.

If these bills become law, Floridians harmed by pesticides would lose their right to hold manufacturers accountable in court unless very restrictive conditions are met.

This is a direct attack on consumer rights and public safety for several reasons. HB 129 & SB 992:

Violate Constitutional Rights — These bills undermine the 7th Amendment right to trial by jury. Any law that restricts a constitutional right must be carefully justified, yet no compelling case has been made for stripping Floridians of their right to seek legal recourse for pesticide-related health effects.

Undermine Existing Safeguards — Florida Statute 487.159 established a pesticide incident monitoring system to track harms from these chemicals, underscoring the need for accountability.

Weaken Consumer Protections — HB 129 and SB 992 remove critical legal avenues for Floridians harmed by pesticides, leaving victims with little or no recourse.

Reduce Corporate Accountability Limiting liability — could lead to reduced diligence from pesticide manufacturers, increasing risks for consumers and the environment.

Threaten Public Health & the Environment — In the absence of meaningful legal consequences, manufacturers may take fewer precautions, increasing risks to both citizens and the environment from chemical exposures.

Set a Dangerous Precedent — If these bills pass, other industries could seek similar liability protections, further eroding consumer rights across various sectors.

We’ve already seen the consequences of shielding an industry from liability: Vaccine manufacturers have enjoyed legal immunity for decades, leaving countless injured individuals with no meaningful recourse. We cannot allow the pesticide industry to follow this same path of prioritizing corporate profits over the well-being of Floridians.

What you can do:
– Click on “Take Action” and follow the steps to have your voice heard.
– Set a meeting with your legislators. It is their job to listen to their constituents!