U.S. Supreme Court Rebuffs Companies Over Lead Paint Liability
The U.S. Supreme Court has rejected appeals by three paint manufacturers — Sherwin-Williams Co.; ConAgra, part of parent company Conagra Brands Inc.; and NL Industries Inc., which is owned by Valhi Inc. — challenging a California court ruling that held them liable for millions of dollars in damages related to the use of lead paint decades ago. The justices left in place the lower court's 2017 ruling that endorsed a trial judge's finding that the companies had created a "public nuisance" by concealing dangers posed by lead paint, which can cause brain damage if ingested. The California appeals court said the companies were liable for the cost of lead abatement in residences constructed prior to 1951. The litigation, dating back to 2000, stems from a complaint filed against the companies by 10 local jurisdictions in the Golden State.