The New York Times: Lawsuits Over ‘Misleading’ Food Labels Surge as Groups Cite Lax U.S. Oversight —  Class-action litigation against food and beverage companies hit a record high last year, with 220 lawsuits filed in 2020. The mounting wave of legal activism in part reflects the frustration of advocates who have made little headway in recent years convincing federal regulators to increase their oversight of the nation’s food supply.

Law Street: Johnson & Johnson Files Writ of Certiorari Regarding FDA Preemption Laws — Johnson & Johnson filed a petition for writ of certiorari to the United States Supreme Court last week regarding whether federal law prevents the state from suing the company for failing to disclose alleged cancer risks posed by its products containing talc. The FDA does not require talc warning labels on cosmetic products.

EPA: EPA Announces Plans for New Wastewater Regulations, Including First Limits for PFAS, Updated Limits for Nutrients — The Environmental Protection Agency announced it will undertake three new rulemakings to reduce contaminants, including in the organic chemicals, plastics, and synthetic fibers categories to address PFAS discharges from manufacturing facilities. 

Water Online: Orange County Water District’s PFAS Pilot Project Receives Prestigious Award From California Municipal Utilities Association — OCWD is one of nine electric utilities and water agencies recognized by CMUA for outstanding projects advancing best practices and innovative ideas in the water and power industry. The pilot project received first place in the small-size utility water program category for launching the nation’s largest PFAS testing program.

Eagle Herald: Town of Peshtigo to Move Forward in Discussions with Grant & Eisenhofer Regarding PFAS — The Town of Peshtigo Town Board approved Wednesday a motion to continue discussions with the Grant & Eisenhofer (G&E) law firm regarding the firm’s possible role as a legal representative of the town and participant in investigations related to the PFAS contamination in the area.