The Water Works and Sewer Board of the City of Gadsden can proceed with its lawsuit against several defendants it contends are responsible for the negligent, willful and wanton conduct that has led to PFAS contamination in the Coosa River Basin.
The lawsuit involves prominent defendants, including DuPont, Daikin America, and other PFAS manufacturers, accused of contributing to the PFAS contamination issue in Gadsden. The contamination, which poses severe health risks, has prompted legal action by the Water Works and Sewer Board of Gadsden. The lawsuit alleges that the defendants' actions have resulted in significant expenses for the board, prompting them to seek accountability.
"I am pleased that we can move forward with our lawsuit against these defendants who we believe have caused significant expense to our client," said Beasley Allen attorney Rhon Jones. "It is important that those responsible for this contamination are held accountable for their actions."
The lawsuit aims to secure damages to cover the costs associated with removing PFAS from Gadsden's drinking water, disposing of the contaminants, addressing real property damage, and covering future expenses. The litigation was temporarily halted due to a proposed MDL settlement, which Gadsden chose to opt out of, allowing the case to proceed independently.
The contamination issue underscores the severity of PFAS chemicals, which are known for their long-lasting and harmful effects on health. The EPA has issued stringent guidelines, recommending that drinking water should contain minimal levels of PFAS to ensure public safety.
The legal battle signifies the board's commitment to ensuring the well-being of Gadsden residents and holding the responsible parties accountable for their actions. The legal team representing Gadsden includes notable attorneys Matt Griffith, Jeff Price, David Diab, Elliot Bienenfeld, Gavin King, and Elizabeth Weyerman.
The lawsuit against DuPont, Daikin America, and other defendants marks a significant step towards addressing the PFAS contamination issue in Gadsden and seeking justice for the affected community.