Mass Tort Updates

In 2025, several noteworthy developments emerged in the field of mass torts. One of the most prominent cases is the litigation involving talcum powder, particularly regarding Johnson & Johnson. This case is recognized as one of the largest mass tort actions currently underway, with a significant number of lawsuits claiming that exposure to talcum powder, especially in baby powder, which has been associated with cancer. As the year progresses, there could be a considerable potential for substantial settlement agreements to be reached.

As of January 2025, there are over 24,000 plaintiffs with pending cases in the C.R. Bard Hernia Mesh Multidistrict Litigation (MDL). In recent months, hundreds of new hernia mesh lawsuits have been consolidated into this MDL, highlighting its status as one of the most active mass tort litigations currently ongoing.

These lawsuits are also against several medical device manufacturers, including Covidien Inc., Medtronic USA Inc., Tyco Healthcare Group LP, and others, alleging that a defective hernia mesh implant caused severe and lasting injuries.

Another vital topic within mass tort updates is the litigation against Bayer concerning its Roundup herbicide. While many lawsuits have already been settled on this matter, new cases continue to emerge, thereby sustaining the issue within the judicial system.

The Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits have also gained attention as a relatively newer mass tort phenomenon. These claims are directed at the manufacturer of Tepezza, a treatment for thyroid eye disease, amid growing concerns regarding potential hearing loss side effects linked to the medication.

Regarding class actions, 2025 has also marked a period of significant settlements, with reports indicating that total settlements have surpassed $40 billion in recent years. An important focus has been on consumer protection, with numerous class action lawsuits addressing deceptive marketing practices, data privacy infringements, and unfair business terms. This trend reflects an increasing awareness and proactive response to critical consumer issues in today's market landscape.