Paraquat, a potent herbicide used for over six decades, is under scrutiny in California due to health concerns such as Parkinson’s disease. Assembly Bill 1963 proposes banning paraquat across all sectors, including agriculture, by the end of 2025. This legislative move is backed by substantial scientific evidence highlighting the herbicide's harmful effects.
Health risks associated with paraquat are significant. The substance can enter the body through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. A mere teaspoon can be fatal, and no antidote exists. Studies have linked paraquat to Parkinson’s disease—a progressive neurological disorder—suggesting that environmental toxins like paraquat may trigger or accelerate its onset.
Globally, over 90 countries and the European Union have imposed bans or restrictions on paraquat usage. Notably, China, where paraquat was originally developed, has banned its use but remains the leading producer and exporter.
Recent research underscores these dangers. Studies indicate that agricultural workers exposed to paraquat are more than twice as likely to develop Parkinson’s disease compared to those not exposed. This connection has been acknowledged by paraquat manufacturers for some time.
In the United States, around 18 million pounds of paraquat are used annually, with California alone applying over 1 million pounds each year. The chemical also exhibits persistence in soil environments.
The Beasley Allen Paraquat Litigation Team is actively engaged in legal proceedings related to paraquat exposure within both the California JCCP and the MDL in the Southern District of Illinois. The team works alongside various law firms to navigate these complex cases.