PFAS

Future Implications of Key Legal Developments in 2023 Shaping Various Industries: From Rejecting Overly Ambitious PFAS Class Actions to Amendments of Federal Rule 702 on Expert Witness Testimony

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Harriss Beach Attorneys Abbie Eliasberg Fuchs, Daniel R. Strecker, and Alessandra G. Ash have analyzed key judicial holdings and legal developments in federal court and tort hotspots across the country that have impacted the industry in 2023 and may shape the years ahead. They have shared potential implications for future cases in regards to these topics: – The Sixth Circuit has rejected an overly ambitious PFAS class action. – The Hair Relaxer MDL is proceeding. – Illinois now permits punitive damages in wrongful death cases and has increased the availability of expedited trials. – California … Read more

Unlocking Growth Opportunities: How PFAS Trends Propel Companies into New Territories

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HOUSTON, TX – The presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the environment has become a growing concern for companies across various industries. PFAS, a group of man-made chemicals commonly found in firefighting foam and consumer products, have been linked to serious health issues. This has led to increased scrutiny and the need for companies to address this emerging challenge. PFAS are characterized by their strong resistance to heat, oil, and water, making them useful in a wide range of applications. However, their persistence in the environment and potential health risks have raised red … Read more

Landmark Ruling: PFAS Lawsuit Against Saint-Gobain Receives Class-Action Status

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MERRIMACK, New Hampshire – A judge has granted class-action status in a lawsuit filed against Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics concerning PFAS contamination. The lawsuit alleges that the chemical manufacturer’s operations have led to the contamination of water sources in the surrounding area. The decision, made by Judge Kirsten Schmautz of Hillsborough County Superior Court, means that the lawsuit can now move forward as a class-action suit. This allows individuals who have been affected by the contamination to join together and seek legal action collectively, rather than pursuing individual lawsuits. The lawsuit was initially filed in 2019 … Read more

5 Emerging Trends in Products Liability & Mass Torts: AI, Public Nuisance, Right to Repair, PFAS Claims, Expert Testimony

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Houston, TX – The landscape of products liability and mass torts is set to undergo significant changes in the coming years. Here are five key trends to watch in this legal arena: Firstly, the increasing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) may lead to the emergence of mass tort claims related to defective product design or defective code. As AI becomes more prevalent in various industries, the potential for legal challenges based on AI-related issues is growing. Secondly, the use of Public Nuisance as a means of assigning liability in mass torts is on the rise. … Read more