Whale watch guide in the summer; freelance copywriter, editor and storyteller the rest of the time. Made by @TB_Times. Marine life advocate. Photographer.
Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Libby Baldwin
Amazon Files Lawsuit Against U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission over Recalls
Lawyers for Amazon, the e-commerce giant with $575 billion in revenue, filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on March 14. The lawsuit was submitted in federal district court in Maryland and marks the latest development in a three-year-long battle between Amazon and the government agency responsible for protecting citizens from unsafe products.
New Legislation Could Be a Defense for Dangerous Product Claims
Legislation introduced in at least eight states could limit chemical company Bayer’s liability in Roundup lawsuits, significantly affecting whether people who developed cancer after Roundup exposure will settle successfully. Many of the Roundup lawsuits filed against Bayer allege that the company failed to warn consumers about the risks of the weed killer. Bayer acquired biotechnology company Monsanto, the original developer of Roundup, in 2018.
Amazon Held Accountable for Dangerous Products
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has ruled that Amazon must recall dangerous products sold on the platform, even if they are sold by third parties. The regulator’s final decision, released last month, comes after a July 2024 ruling that classifies the e-commerce giant as a distributor under the Consumer Product Safety Act. As a distributor, Amazon bears a legal responsibility for recalling dangerous products and informing customers of those dangers.
Victims Begin Seeing Justice Through Payouts and Closure of FCI-Dublin
The Federal Correctional Institution in Dublin, California has made headlines for years due to allegations of rampant inmate abuse involving prison employees. Now the prison just north of San Francisco is permanently closed, and, on December 17, a settlement was reached between the federal government and more than 100 women who filed lawsuits against FCI-Dublin. Under the settlements, the Justice Department will pay approximately $1.1 million to each woman.
Another Bankruptcy Filing Amid J&J Talc Baby Powder Lawsuits
Many cancer victims and advocates who hope to see more accountability put on Johnson & Johnson (J&J) for the injuries caused by the company’s talc baby powder are dismayed by a recent decision by a Houston judge. On October 10, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Christopher Lopez announced he would allow a bankruptcy case involving Red River Talc, a new subsidiary of J&J, to stay in Texas.
What You Need to Know About the Paragard IUD Removal Process
For women across the country, many use some form of birth control. Birth control options include pills, condoms, patches, implants, shots, and intrauterine devices (IUDs). Of the five IUD medical devices approved for use in the U.S., the Paragard IUD is made of copper and is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. This device can last 10 years and is the only hormone-free device available at this time.
Uncovering Illnesses Associated with Roundup Exposure
For decades, gardeners, landscapers, and farmers have relied on Roundup products to keep weeds out of their gardens, off their properties, and away from their crops. Introduced by the manufacturer Monsanto in 1974, and now owned by Bayer Corporation, Roundup is considered one of the most recognized herbicides in the world. However, studies have found that glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, is also linked to non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other adverse health conditions.
Why Rashes After Taking Anti-Seizure Medications Need to Be Taken Seriously
An anti-seizure medication (ASM) can have positive effects on individuals dealing with various conditions, such as epilepsy, migraines, and mood disorders. However, along with the benefits of these drug treatments, there is a possibility that the patient could experience concerning side effects in the form of a skin rash potentially leading to hospitalization and life-altering consequences.
How Will Recent NEC Baby Formula Lawsuit Verdicts Affect Formula Production?
Leading formula manufacturer Abbott Laboratories has been ordered to pay $495 million to a woman whose infant daughter developed necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) after consuming its baby formula — and the verdict could jeopardize formula production nationwide. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) said in a press release that NEC lawsuits could affect the availability of formula designed explicitly for preterm infants.
NEC Baby Formula Lawsuits Differ From Contaminated Formula Cases
These are difficult days for baby formula manufacturers and parents of infants. Thousands of NEC baby formula lawsuits have been filed against Abbott Laboratories and Mead Johnson because of their formulas created and marketed for premature babies. Some infants are becoming gravely ill with some dying, after contracting Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) from certain formulas that are made with cow’s milk as a main ingredient.
How an Attorney Can Help After a Paragard IUD Injury?
Millions of women nationwide use the Paragard IUD as a form of birth control. The benefits of the intrauterine device are apparent: it can be inserted in minutes, doesn’t have the same side effects as hormonal birth control, and is effective for up to 10 years. However, patients may not realize that the Paragard IUD also has significant risks — namely, breakage that can cause internal injuries.
Paragard IUD Breakages Continue Even After 2022 FDA Warning
A new investigation has found that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raised concerns about Paragard IUD breakages in 2022 after inspecting the facility where the IUD is manufactured. The FDA didn’t take public action against CooperSurgical and Teva Pharmaceuticals, and the company didn’t respond to the warning. The FDA received 1,231 reports of the IUD breaking last year, with 80% of those reports deemed serious, according to Spotlight on America.
Bravo TV Star Experiences Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Misdiagnosis
A Bravo reality television star’s experience with Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is shining light on the rare condition, which can be fatal in severe cases. Kyle Viljoen, a former cast member on “Below Deck Mediterranean,” shared in October that he was diagnosed with SJS after first being incorrectly told he had hand-foot-mouth disease, a mild infection characterized by sores and rashes on the mouth, hands, and feet. Viljoen’s symptoms started with blisters all over his body.
New Study Links Talc Powder to Ovarian Cancer
A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology has linked talc powder to ovarian cancer. The research, which was published last month, found that women who used talc-based powder on their genitals were more likely to develop ovarian cancer. The report comes as Johnson & Johnson faces tens of thousands of baby powder lawsuits from women who say they developed ovarian cancer after using the company’s baby powder, which has historically contained talc.
California Women’s Prison Plagued with Sex Abuse Has Closed
The Federal Correctional Institution in Dublin, California (FCI-Dublin) served as the sole women-only federal prison east of the Rocky Mountains for decades, and its list of former residents includes Heidi Fleiss, Patty Hearst, Squeaky Fromme, and Felicity Huffman. However, in recent years, FCI-Dublin has been linked to horrific tales of prisoner abuse.
$60 Million Verdict Could Lead to More NEC Baby Formula Lawsuits
An Illinois jury awarded $60 million last month to a woman whose premature baby died from necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) after consuming baby formula. The jury found that Mead Johnson, the manufacturer of the popular formula brand Enfamil, acted negligently and failed to warn consumers about the potential risk of NEC.
What To Look for When Hiring a Roundup Lawyer
Lawsuits filed against Roundup manufacturer Monsanto and now Bayer have been filed across the country and are in various stages before the court system. Some lawsuits have been settled while others are waiting for their day in court. Roundup lawsuits claim that there is a connection between Roundup exposure and cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified glyphosate the active ingredient in Roundup as a probable carcinogen.
What Is the Most Common Cause of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?
Certain medications designed to treat illnesses and symptoms in a sick patient can actually make things much worse by triggering a rare, intensely painful, and often life-threatening disease known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS). SJS is a dermatological condition that begins with flu-like symptoms but quickly morphs into severe rashes and blisters anywhere on the skin, which peel off and leave behind excruciating open wounds. It can also cause blisters in the eyes, mouth, and genitals.
Top 5 Reasons You Should Hire a Roundup Lawyer
For the millions of Americans who work in the agriculture industry or tend their yards, most are familiar with Roundup. This weed killer was introduced to the market in 1974 by Monsanto. In 2018, Monsanto was acquired by Bayer. Since its introduction, it has been used by countless Americans to control weeds in environments that include commercial agriculture, personal gardens, and residential yards.
Lawsuits Filed Over Lead in Stanley Water Bottles
The stainless steel water bottles known as Stanley cups, which became a nationwide obsession after going viral on social media, are under fire in several federal class action lawsuits for containing lead, which plaintiffs say the parent company, Seattle-based Pacific Market International, LLC (PMI), failed to disclose.
Roundup Update: Bayer Ordered to Pay Billions in Roundup Weed Killer Cancer Lawsuit
In January, the manufacturer of Roundup, the most popular weed killer in the world, received a tough verdict from a Pennsylvania jury. Monsanto and its parent company Bayer were ordered to pay $2.25 billion to a 47-year-old plaintiff, who had developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma while using Roundup at both his work and in his yard regularly for more than 20 years. The jury reached its verdict on January 27.
What Are the Side Effects of Paragard IUD?
The Paragard IUD is one of the most popular forms of birth control on the market. The contraception device has an effectiveness rate of more than 99%, making it an attractive choice for women who want to prevent unintended pregnancy. However, the Paragard IUD can cause serious side effects — some of which are irreversible and lead to long-term damage. Women injured by the device are filing Paragard lawsuits against manufacturers Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. and CooperSurgical, Inc.
Boy Scouts Sex Abuse Settlement Update
Former Boy Scouts who selected a quick payout option in the 2022 sex abuse settlement appear to have inadvertently cost themselves a much higher award. The settlement, the largest relating to sex abuse in U.S. history at $2.46 billion, included a “quick pay” option that would help plaintiffs avoid a years-long claims process by accepting a flat $3,500 payment. The deadline for that option passed last November.
Is the NFL Brain Injury Settlement Helping Players?
A landmark settlement intended to compensate NFL players for brain injuries sustained on the field is falling short of expectations, according to an in-depth investigation by The Washington Post. The 2015 settlement ostensibly resolved the league’s “concussion crisis,” pledging substantial awards for retired players who develop neurological diseases linked to concussions later in life. Awards would cover medical expenses, long-term healthcare, and present or future lost wages.
Lawsuits Filed Over Airplane Door Failure
Plane passengers are filing lawsuits against Boeing and Alaska Airlines after an incident last month that they say caused emotional distress. On Jan. 5, a Boeing 737 MAX 9 door plug blew out in the middle of an Alaska Airlines flight 16,000 feet above ground, leaving a gaping hole in the plane that led to an emergency landing.
A New Baby Formula Recall Issued Due to Bacteria Concerns
Many parents and caregivers depend on powdered baby formula to feed their children. Some do not have access to breastmilk, the nourishment pediatricians recommend as the number one way to feed newborns. In recent years, however, parents have not always been able to rely on manufacturers to provide safe or accessible baby formula products.
USTA Hires Lawyers to Investigate Handling of Sex Abuse Allegations
As the United States Tennis Association (USTA) navigates a federal lawsuit involving alleged sex abuse against a female tennis player, it has launched an official review of its safeguarding policies with the help of two high-profile lawyers. In an announcement posted on the USTA’s website on Jan. 4, executive director Lew Sherr said the organization hired Mary Beth Hogan and David O’Neil from the law firm of Debevoise & Plimpton.
Another Win For Roundup Lawsuit Plaintiffs
A Philadelphia court ruling earlier this month marks the fifth consecutive trial loss for pharmaceutical giant Bayer, whose Roundup weedkiller was named responsible for a Pennsylvania woman’s non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Plaintiff Kelly Martel was awarded nearly $3.5 million in damages, a much smaller amount than other recent Bayer losses. In November, just three plaintiffs won $1.56 billion.
What Is the Status of 3M Earplug Lawsuits?
Hundreds of thousands of earplug lawsuits have been filed against global manufacturing giant 3M over their Combat Arms earplugs, alleging that a design flaw caused hearing damage or loss in countless active duty troops and veterans in Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2019, the cases were consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) under one Florida judge to streamline the settlement process. They now represent the largest federal mass tort litigation in U.S. history.
Baby Powder Lawsuits Continue While J&J Execs Rethink Strategy
Johnson & Johnson’s attempts to move past its expensive legal battles over talc-based baby powder remain unsuccessful, even after utilizing a loophole known as the “Texas Two-Step.” Company executives say the steady stream of new claims won’t pressure them into giving up.
Study Finds Toddler Formulas Not As Healthy As They Claim
New clinical guidance released by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) cautions parents that formulas marketed as healthy and nutritious for toddlers are unnecessary and provide little to no health benefits. These “toddler milks” and other beverages are offered as transition drinks designed to wean children between 12-36 months off breast milk or baby formula.
Lawsuits Filed Over Decongestants In Cold Medicines Original
For years, people suffering from congestion, the common cold, or the flu have relied on the drug phenylephrine, which is found in over-the-counter medicines like Sudafed PE, Vicks Nyquil Sinex Nighttime Sinus Relief, and Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion. Last year in the United States, these medications earned almost $1.8 billion in sales for the drug manufacturing industry.
Boy Scouts Sex Abuse Settlement Claims Portal Opens
It is no longer a secret that thousands of boys have suffered sexual abuse during their time spent within the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), an organization congressionally chartered in 1916. In 2020, the repercussions of the sexual abuse forced the BSA to seek bankruptcy protection, and filings against the organization topped 80,000 sexual abuse claims. Three years later, the BSA has emerged from its Chapter 11 status.
August Is SJS Awareness Month
One of the leading causes of death in the United States is allergic drug reactions. For those diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), this may not come as a surprise. These conditions can be life-threatening, require immediate medical attention, can lead to hospitalization for treatment and may cause loss of life. Many times, SJS is the result of an adverse reaction to a medication. What is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?
New Book About Roundup Lawsuits Gives Behind-The-Scenes Look
Dr. Chadi Nabhan is a hematologist and medical oncologist who has worn many hats. He has served as chief of Hematology and Cancer Institute director at the Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, Illinois and an associate professor of medicine and medical director of the Clinical Outpatient Cancer Center at the University of Chicago. He is the creator and host of the podcast “Healthcare Unfiltered.” Nabhan is currently serving as chairman of the Caris Precision Oncology Alliance.
Is It Safe to Use Baby Powder?
With so many baby powder lawsuits filed against Johnson & Johnson over the last few years, you may be wondering – is it safe to use baby powder? Those who have used baby powder in the past on themselves or their children may wonder has this product put their lives at risk. As one may expect, the answer is complicated. In April, Johnson & Johnson announced it set aside nearly $9 billion for a settlement associated with claims that J&J’s talc baby powder caused cancer in those who have used it.
Study Shows Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Worse for Diabetics
Each year in the U.S., as many as two million people are diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), a painful and dangerous skin disorder. Extensive research has shown that over-the-counter and prescription medications for pain, inflammation, mental illnesses, seizures, and infections typically trigger SJS.
What Are The Disadvantages of Feeding An Infant Baby Formula
Formula feeding is a common alternative to providing infants with the proper nutrition and substances for the growth of a healthy child. While health professionals believe that breast milk is best for infants because it protects against various diseases and conditions, it’s not always an option for mothers or caregivers.
Illinois Catholic Church Sex Abuse Investigative Report Released
A recent report released by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s office found that child sex abuse claims against Catholic clergy members amounted to more than 1,900 survivors in Illinois. This report was released after a five-year comprehensive investigation into sexual abuse cases in the Catholic dioceses in Illinois. The almost 700-page report contains shocking details about the nature of the widespread abuse and the clergy and lay religious brothers who committed these heinous acts.
A Supreme Court Decision Involving Terrorism Brings No Changes To Internet Regulations
It’s been a hot minute since President Bill Clinton signed Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act (CDA) into law in 1996. However, that 27-year-old legislation appears to have stood the test of time – at least for now. Section 230 was enacted to guide and support the Internet – then only in its infancy stage. It gave the Internet users, not the tech companies that owned the different sites or platforms, the responsibility for the information posted.
New Study Shows Dangers of Childhood Exposure To Weed Killer
Childhood obesity and metabolic syndrome have increased at an alarming rate in the United States, specifically among populations of color. A new study released by UC Berkeley’s School of Public Health found that children exposed to weed killers containing glyphosate and AMPA were at a higher risk of liver inflammation and metabolic disorders when the children entered adulthood. AMPA is a degradation product of glyphosate and amino-polyphosphonates.
Johnson & Johnson Proposes New Settlement Amount for Talc Baby Powder Lawsuits Original
Johnson & Johnson has set aside $8.9 billion to cover ongoing lawsuits that claim its baby powder containing talc caused cancer. This new amount quadruples the original $2 billion the company had set aside for ongoing litigation. To date, over 38,000 talc baby powder lawsuits have been filed against the pharmaceutical company. Women, who are the main plaintiffs, claim J&J talc-based baby powder and similar cosmetic products contain toxic chemicals, specifically asbestos.
Report Uncovers Extensive Sex Abuse Within Archdiocese of Baltimore
The damning results of a four-year investigation into decades of sexual abuse by the Archdiocese of Baltimore priests have finally been released to the public. The report, nearly 500 pages long, was completed four years ago by the office of Maryland’s then-attorney general, Brian Frosh. Because it contains information from grand jury subpoenas, it was kept private until a Baltimore Circuit Court judge ruled to release a redacted version last month.
Changing Times: Women’s Tennis Association’s Attempt to Further Protect Its Players from Sexual Abuse
In a news conference in Tempe, Arizona, in March of 2022, a 19-year-old female tennis player announced she was taking legal action against the United States Tennis Association over a coach’s sexual abuse, alleging the abuse occurred at the training center in Florida. She filed a federal lawsuit against the USTA, claiming it had failed to keep her safe from someone with a history of assaulting women.
Are Off-Label Medications Safe?
A crucial Type 2 diabetes medication is in dangerously short supply thanks to its popularity as a weight loss drug. The generic version of brand-name drug Wegovy and its sister drug, Ozempic, is called semaglutide. This medicine stimulates insulin production, keeps the blood sugar levels of patients battling diabetes and/or obesity in check, and suppresses appetite. Approximately 35 million Americans live with Type 2 diabetes.
Civil Lawsuits Filed Over Cheerleading Gym Sex Abuse
Over the past four months, 12 civil lawsuits have been filed across six states on behalf of 21 ex-students, who allege they were victims of a pervasive culture of drugs, pornography, and sexual abuse in the world of competitive cheerleading. Defendants include five elite gyms, 15 coaches and two dance choreographers. The individual coaches, some of whom have already been terminated and/or criminally prosecuted, are accused of various types of child sexual abuse.
Federal Appeals Court Rejects Johnson & Johnson’s Bankruptcy Strategy for Baby Powder Lawsuits
On January 30, a critical decision for Johnson & Johnson and thousands of people with cancer was handed down by the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia when a three-judge panel ruled that LTL Management, a Johnson & Johnson subsidiary, could not file bankruptcy. The Court dismissed LTL Management’s Chapter 11 petition, and in the 56-page opinion, they explained the dismissal was due to the fact LTL Management was created only to access the bankruptcy system.
Is the NFL Getting Better at Protecting Players from Brain Injuries?
Hundreds of players in the National Football League sustain injuries of all sorts each year, and the 2022-23 season has been no different. There have been countless tackles, trips and throws gone awry. And, on December 2, the sheer intensity and risks of the game were put on full display when Damar Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest after a hit during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Another Blood Pressure Drug Recalled Due to Possible Cancer-Causing Risk
Heart disease is the world’s leading cause of death. There are 116 million Americans who suffer from hypertension, also called high blood pressure. About 40 percent of them rely on medication to treat it. Unfortunately, recent issues with several of these drugs are cause for concern. Over the last year, several manufacturers of high blood pressure medications have had to recall their products due to unacceptable levels of a nitrosamine called N-Nitroso-Quinapril.
Choosing The Right Lawyer to Handle Your NEC Baby Formula Case
Lawsuits filed against the manufacturers of popular baby formula brands Similac and Enfamil are moving forward in the court system. Mead Johnson and Abbott Laboratories are under fire from parents whose premature infants, or “preemies,” developed a life-threatening condition called necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC); some passed away. The parents allege in NEC baby formula lawsuits that manufacturers knew the risks of giving cow’s milk-based formula to premature babies.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Libby
Contact Libby, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack