For decades, impacted communities have relied on the courts as one avenue to challenge powerful chemical companies and seek redress for harm.

Pesticide-impacted communities suffered a blow in June when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled to favor the profits of Monsanto over the health of everyday people. In a 7-2 ruling, the Supreme Court sided with Monsanto on pesticide preemption. The decision effectively shields pesticide manufacturers from lawsuits brought by individuals harmed from pesticide exposure. The decision effectively shields pesticide manufacturers from lawsuits brought by individuals harmed from pesticide exposure.

The SCOTUS ruling makes it harder for people to hold corporations accountable and raises serious concerns about who will protect public health when federal safeguards fall short.

But we have some hopeful news. Lawmakers aim to restore our ability to hold pesticide companies accountable through legislation in Congress. The People Over Poison Act (H.R.9528) was introduced quickly after the court ruling. Just weeks later, a strengthened bill was put forward: Americans vs. Poisonous Pesticides Act (H.R.9807). The Pesticide Harm Accountability Act (H.R.10144) builds on the prior bills mirroring the statutory language, adding findings for why the text is needed, and requiring Congress to report on and restore legal claims if the bill passes.

Toxic Free NC stands with communities demanding the right to hold polluters accountable and will continue fighting for policies that put people's health ahead of corporate profits.

We're telling Congress to act in the interest of our communities and support these bills moving forward. Will you add your voice? Help us make sure these bills get the support they deserve. Reach out to your member of congress today.