Battery

Billion-Dollar EV Battery Plant Project in Big Rapids Stalls Amid Lawsuit and Local Opposition

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Big Rapids, MI — A major electric vehicle battery plant project in Green Charter Township is on hold as legal battles ensue over its future. Initiated by Gotion, a subsidiary of a China-based company, the $2 billion facility was expected to bring substantial economic growth to the rural Mecosta County, promising to create over 2,000 jobs. In August 2023, Gotion reached an agreement with local township officials to establish what was positioned as a significant boost to the regional economy. The venture, however, quickly became the center of a contentious dispute. A faction of local … Read more

Lawsuit Alleges Texas Firm Recklessly Constructed Hazardous Battery Facility in Moss Landing, Sparking Severe Toxic Blaze

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Moss Landing, CA — A lawsuit has been filed alleging that a Texas-based energy storage company was aware of risks but still chose to construct a hazardous battery facility, which later was the site of a significant toxic fire in Moss Landing, California. The legal action claims that this decision put workers at the facility, as well as nearby residents, at risk. The lawsuit targets Vistra Corp., headquartered in Irving, Texas. According to the suit, Vistra Corp. failed to implement adequate safety measures at the battery facility or properly warn local communities about potential dangers. … Read more

Jury Acquits Veterinarian in Allen Parish on Rape and Sexual Battery Allegations

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Oberlin, LA — A veterinarian in Allen Parish has been acquitted of rape and sexual battery charges by a local jury. The verdict was reached after careful consideration of the evidence presented during the trial, marking the conclusion of a case that has closely engaged the community. The veterinarian, who had maintained his innocence since the allegations surfaced, faced charges related to an incident that allegedly occurred last year. According to court documents, the charges stemmed from an accusation made by a female who claimed to have been assaulted at the veterinarian’s residence during a … Read more

$22 Million FLSA Verdict: Court Demands Fair Pay for All Employee Hours at Pennsylvania Battery Plant

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Philadelphia, PA – In a landmark decision by the Third Circuit, a Pennsylvania battery manufacturer has been ordered to pay over $22 million in back wages to thousands of employees. This ruling affirms a jury verdict concerning the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and underscores the legal mandates governing compensable work hours. The case centered around East Penn Manufacturing Company, known for its production of lead acid batteries and associated components. An essential aspect of the employees’ roles involved donning and doffing personal protective equipment (PPE) to safeguard against lead exposure, a recognized hazard in … Read more