Firefighting Foam Contamination
Airport Lawsuits Numerous airports have filed civil lawsuits to recover damages and costs associated with decades of firefighting foam use. U.S. District Judge Richard M. Gergel oversees most of these cases in the AFFF multidistrict litigation to coordinate pretrial matters, facilitate settlements, and trials. Airports claim that aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl […]
New Executive Orders and Their Potential Impact
The Future of Environmental Protections Under New Leadership Changes in presidential administrations often bring shifts in regulatory priorities, and the latest round of executive orders signals a significant transformation in environmental policy. With new leadership comes the potential rollback or strengthening of key environmental protections, affecting industries, communities, and legal battles over pollution and toxic […]
Can You Sue for a Terrorist Attack in Louisiana?
The tragic Bourbon Street terrorist attack has left many wondering about what legal rights are available to the victims and surviving families. Of course, those responsible can be held criminally accountable. In addition, victims of terrorist acts in Louisiana may have options to seek compensation for their losses. This article will provide details about the […]
FDA Seeks Information on PFAS in Seafood
On November 19, 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) issued a request for information (RFI) on per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (“PFAS”) in seafood. The agency is seeking information on concentrations in seafood and the surrounding environment Additionally, the FDA is looking for mitigation strategies for reducing exposure to PFAS in seafood. This call for data highlights growing […]
FDA’s Update on Phthalates in Food Packaging
On October 29, 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an important update on the regulation of phthalates in food packaging. This announcement builds on the agency’s 2022 Final Rule, which addressed the safety of certain chemicals in food contact materials. What Are Phthalates? Phthalates are a group of synthetic chemicals used to make […]
Supreme Court Overturns Chevron Doctrine
Introduction: The End of Chevron Deference In June 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling that overturned the Chevron doctrine, a principle that has guided U.S. regulatory law for over four decades. Under the Chevron doctrine, federal agencies were given deference in interpreting laws when their meaning was unclear. However, the Supreme Court’s […]
DC Circuit Challenges NEPA Regulations
A recent decision by the DC Circuit raised significant questions about the legal authority of the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) to issue regulations under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The ruling challenged CEQ’s long-standing framework, which guides federal agencies on how to assess the environmental impacts of major federal actions. The […]
EPA Revises DecaBDE and PIP (3:1) Rules
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized revisions to its rules for decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE) and phenol, isopropylated phosphate (3:1) (PIP (3:1)) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Effective January 21, 2025, these revisions address the use, compliance timelines, and safety protocols for these persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic chemicals (PBTs). Key Revisions and […]
Should the EPA Ban this Herbicide?
Introduction Paraquat is a widely used herbicide known for its effectiveness in controlling weeds. However, concerns have grown about its potential link to Parkinson’s disease. This raises an important question: Should the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ban paraquat to protect public health? Understanding Paraquat Paraquat is a chemical herbicide that farmers use to kill weeds. […]
Understanding PFAS and Its Impact on Health
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of human-made chemicals commonly used for their water- and grease-resistant properties. Found in products like non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, food packaging, and firefighting foam, PFAS have become widespread in the environment. Unfortunately, these chemicals can also accumulate in the human body, leading to potential health risks […]