The Paraquat lawsuit involves thousands of plaintiffs filing claims against manufacturers and distributors of the herbicide Paraquat, alleging that exposure to the chemical caused serious health problems, most notably Parkinson’s disease. Paraquat, a widely used weed killer, has been banned in over 70 countries but remains in use in the United States, leading to significant legal and health controversies.
Paraquat Lawsuit
As of August 2025, over 6,300 claims have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 3004) in the Southern District of Illinois, targeting companies such as Syngenta, Chevron, and others involved in the manufacturing and distribution of Paraquat products like Gramoxone, Firestorm®, Helmquat®, and Parazone®.
The lawsuits allege that manufacturers failed to warn users about the risks of Parkinson’s disease linked to Paraquat exposure, despite scientific evidence indicating a strong association. Plaintiffs include agricultural workers, landscapers, and individuals living near areas of Paraquat application.
Legal Claims and Settlement Efforts
Plaintiffs seek damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other harm caused by Paraquat-related illnesses. The litigation includes claims for product liability, failure to warn, negligence, and wrongful death in some cases.
In 2021, Syngenta agreed to a $187.5 million settlement addressing multiple claims, and in 2025, negotiations are ongoing to finalize broader settlement agreements to resolve many outstanding lawsuits. Courts have extended pauses on case-specific deadlines to facilitate settlement discussions.
Trial and Litigation Status
Bellwether trials — test cases chosen to evaluate key issues — are scheduled to start in late 2025, with courts monitoring progress closely. These trials will help determine case outcomes and influence potential global settlements.
Some cases in state courts continue active litigation, particularly in California, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Florida, while new claims are still being filed as awareness of Paraquat’s risks grows.
Health and Safety Concerns
Scientific research supports a strong link between Paraquat exposure and an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder. The lawsuits highlight concerns about inadequate safety measures, improper labeling, and insufficient warnings that failed to protect vulnerable populations.
Despite bans elsewhere, continued Paraquat use in the U.S. has prompted advocacy for stricter regulations and safer alternatives.
Conclusion
The Paraquat lawsuit represents a major mass tort litigation focusing on environmental toxins and public health. With thousands of victims pursuing accountability and compensation, the outcome of these cases will have far-reaching impacts on agricultural practices, chemical safety standards, and regulatory oversight.
Individuals exposed to Paraquat who have developed Parkinson’s disease or related health conditions are encouraged to consult experienced attorneys to evaluate their potential claims.
