Tennessee House Bill 809, introduced on February 4, 2025, by Representative Rusty Grills and seven co-sponsors, protects pesticide manufacturers and sellers from civil lawsuits over labeling if the pesticide had an EPA-approved label under federal law (FIFRA) at the time of sale and was registered with Tennessee agriculture officials. It shields them from claims like failure to warn, as long as they followed state and federal rules. The bill takes effect immediately if passed, aiming to reduce legal risks for pesticide companies.
The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Movement does not support this bill because it grants immunity to pesticide makers, shielding them from accountability for potential harms even when following minimal federal standards. Kennedy has long fought toxic chemicals like pesticides that contaminate food, water, and soil, contributing to chronic illnesses. This liability shield prioritizes corporate protection over public safety, limiting families' ability to seek justice for health damages and clashing with MAHA's demand for strict oversight of environmental toxins.