A Missouri Circuit Court judge has granted preliminary approval to Bayer AG's proposed $7.25 billion class action settlement designed to resolve both current and future claims that its Roundup herbicide causes non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).
This is Bayer's most ambitious attempt to achieve global resolution of the Roundup litigation, which has plagued the company since its 2018 acquisition of Monsanto. The company has already paid more than $11 billion in individual settlements but has struggled to create a mechanism to resolve future claims from people who used Roundup but have not yet been diagnosed with cancer.
Key Terms of the Settlement
- Total value: $7.25 billion, to be paid over several years
- Current claimants: Individuals with existing NHL diagnoses who used Roundup would receive compensation through a claims administration process, with amounts varying based on diagnosis severity, duration of Roundup use, and other factors
- Future claimants: A controversial "science panel" provision would establish an independent panel of epidemiologists and oncologists to periodically assess the scientific evidence linking glyphosate to cancer. Future claimants' ability to sue would be influenced by the panel's findings
- Opt-out rights: Class members who wish to pursue individual lawsuits may opt out of the settlement
Controversy Over the Future Claims Provision
Consumer advocacy groups and some plaintiffs' attorneys have criticized the science panel mechanism, arguing that it effectively allows Bayer to limit future liability by outsourcing the causation question to a panel that may not fully represent claimants' interests. Supporters counter that the provision creates a structured, evidence-based process that benefits both sides.
Final Approval Timeline
A final fairness hearing is scheduled for July 2026. If approved, the settlement would be one of the largest mass tort resolutions in U.S. history. However, if a significant number of claimants opt out, Bayer may withdraw the offer and continue defending individual cases.