Recent Update in the AFFF Litigation
Cases involving Aqueous Film Forming Foams (“AFFF”) have been consolidated in Federal Court in South Carolina before Judge Richard Gergel. Such consolidation is known as a multi-district litigation (“MDL”). Establishing an MDL is common and allows one judge to oversee all pretrial discovery in cases where there exist common questions of fact. What is the […]
The 3M PFAS Settlement Class Fund Explained
In the realm of environmental litigation, PFAS contamination remains a persistent and widespread public health threat. Environmental researchers call PFAS the “forever chemical” because it is notorious for its persistence in the human body and the environment. Research shows it impairs the immune system and causes several diseases, including cancer. Recently, the Federal Judge overseeing […]
Louisiana Swimming Pool Injury Lawsuits
As summer approaches, the allure of poolside relaxation draws families and friends to the refreshing waters of swimming pools. However, amidst the fun and splashes, there is a sobering reality: pool-related accidents and injuries. In Louisiana, like in most states, understanding liability in such incidents is crucial for both pool owners and pool visitors. Let […]
PFAS Contamination at Cannon AFB
The Department of Defense concluded Cannon Air Force Base in New Mexico is one of the most heavily contaminated sites in the country. The DOD included Cannon in the “top 10 of prioritized active US Air Force installations” for addressing PFAS contamination. This article discusses environmental concerns, health risks, ongoing cleanup efforts, and lawsuits related […]
US Production of Biomass
Background Recently, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced the release of the Bioenergy Technologies Office’s (BETO) 2023 Billion-Ton Report (BT23). This is the fourth in a series of assessments of potential biomass resources available in the United States. BT23 provides estimates of biomass resource potential in response to market demand scenarios. According to the […]
PFAS Air Emission Contamination
Background Recently, a class action lawsuit was filed in Connecticut alleging that PFAS air emissions caused contamination to nearby land. The facility was a tissue facility that in the past manufactured diapers which were made with PFAS. The case is notable because it is one of the first PFAS class action lawsuits filed that involves […]
What is PFOS?
This article explains perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). Let us delve into the key details about PFOS and understand its role and impact. The 3M Company formulated PFOS and holds the patent on its unique chemical structure. Chemists characterize its structure based upon the eight-carbon fluorocarbon chain fully covered with fluorine, coupled with a sulfonic acid group. […]
Work Exposure to PFAS Associated with Cancer
Often, workers contact PFAS chemicals without knowing they are being exposed to these dangerous chemicals. Investigators study work exposures to PFAS to figure out whether it affects human health and to protect workers from further harm. Scientists have become alarmed that workers exposed to PFAS have a higher risk of kidney, testicular, and liver cancer. […]
Court Sets Procedures for Opt-Out in DuPont Settlement
On March 26, 2024, the Court overseeing the $1.185 Billion public water class settlement with DuPont received declarations from the Special Master concerning parties opting out of the settlement. Unique procedures apply to class settlements. A class settlement settles all damage claims for all class members unless they “opt-out” of the settlement agreement. Courts set […]
The DOE Invests in Decarbonization Projects
Introduction Recently, the DOE announced it would invest in 33 projects across more than 20 states to decarbonize energy-intensive industries. Additionally, it would reduce industrial greenhouse gas emissions, support good-paying union jobs, revitalize industrial communities, and strengthen the nation’s manufacturing competitiveness. These projects represent an overall investment of more than $20 billion, broken down as […]