Roundup (Monsanto) Litigation (2019): When a $2 Billion Award Became $87 Million
Did you know that in 2019, a jury initially awarded a staggering $2 billion to a couple who claimed their non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma was caused by years of Roundup use? While this headline-grabbing figure was later reduced to $87 million, the case, Pilliod v. Monsanto, remains a critical point in the ongoing Roundup litigation, highlighting the complexities and challenges faced by plaintiffs seeking justice against the agrochemical giant.
The Pilliod Case: A Closer Look
Alva and Alberta Pilliod, a couple from California, had been using Roundup for decades to manage weeds on their property. In 2011, Alva was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in his bones, which later spread. Alberta received her diagnosis of NHL brain cancer in 2015. They filed a lawsuit against Monsanto, alleging that the company failed to warn consumers about the potential cancer risks associated with Roundup’s active ingredient, glyphosate.
After a seven-week trial, the jury sided with the Pilliods, awarding them over $2 billion in damages, including significant punitive damages. This verdict sent shockwaves through Bayer, which had acquired Monsanto in 2018, exposing internal documents suggesting efforts to downplay the risks and manipulate scientific research.
However, the trial judge later reduced the award to $87 million, citing legal limitations on punitive damages. Despite the reduction, the Pilliods retained this amount, and Monsanto’s appeals were ultimately rejected by the Supreme Court in 2022.
Why Was the Award Reduced?
The reduction in the Pilliods’ award highlights a common issue in personal injury cases: the tension between jury verdicts and legal constraints. While juries may be sympathetic to plaintiffs and seek to punish defendants for egregious conduct, courts must adhere to legal principles that limit the amount of damages that can be awarded, particularly punitive damages.
Punitive damages are intended to punish a defendant for malicious or reckless behavior and deter similar conduct in the future. However, they are not meant to provide additional compensation to the plaintiff. Courts often reduce excessive punitive damage awards to comply with constitutional limits and ensure fairness.
The Bigger Picture: Roundup Litigation in 2025
The Pilliod v. Monsanto case is just one chapter in the long-running Roundup litigation. As of March 2025, Monsanto has faced over 165,000 Roundup lawsuits since the start of litigation and has reached settlement agreements in nearly 100,000 Roundup lawsuits, paying approximately $11 billion. However, an estimated 67,000 active Roundup lawsuits remain.
These lawsuits generally allege that exposure to Roundup caused plaintiffs to develop non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). Plaintiffs argue that Monsanto knew or should have known about the cancer risks associated with glyphosate but failed to adequately warn consumers.
Recent Developments:
- Ongoing Trials and Verdicts: Despite the settlements, trials continue, with juries delivering significant verdicts against Bayer. For example, in March 2025, a Georgia jury ordered Bayer to pay over $2 billion to a man who claimed Roundup caused his NHL.
- Appeals and Legal Challenges: Bayer continues to appeal adverse verdicts, arguing that they are not supported by scientific evidence and that federal law preempts state law claims.
- Settlement Negotiations: With thousands of cases still pending, settlement negotiations are ongoing. However, the amounts can vary significantly based on the specifics of each case. Some estimates place average settlements between $120,000 and $180,000, while others suggest a range of $5,000 to $250,000.
- Statute of Limitations: It’s crucial to be aware of the statute of limitations, which sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit. In Roundup cases, the statute of limitations is typically one to three years after the cancer diagnosis, the death of a loved one, or the date you learned about the connection between Roundup exposure and your illness.
Do You Have a Roundup Claim?
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after exposure to Roundup, you may have a legal claim. Here’s what you should consider:
- Consult with an Attorney: An experienced personal injury attorney specializing in Roundup litigation can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and help you understand the statute of limitations in your state.
- Gather Evidence: Collect any evidence that supports your claim, including medical records, Roundup purchase receipts, and employment history (if you used Roundup in an occupational setting).
- Understand the Litigation Process: Be prepared for a potentially lengthy legal process involving investigation, discovery, and negotiation. If a settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to trial.
The Future of Roundup Litigation
The Roundup litigation is far from over. As more research emerges and new cases are filed, the legal landscape will continue to evolve. While the Pilliod v. Monsanto case serves as a reminder of the potential for significant jury awards, it also underscores the challenges of navigating complex legal issues and securing just compensation.
Have you or a loved one been affected by Roundup exposure? Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with an attorney to discuss your specific situation.