March 4, 2009
Enhancing the Ability of Consumers to Hold Drug Companies
Financially Responsible for Injuries
WASHINGTON — Consumers Union, the nonprofit publisher of Consumer Reports magazine, applauded today’s Supreme Court ruling in Wyeth vs. Levine, which enhanced the ability of consumers to hold drug companies financially responsible for injuries.
Consumers Union filed an amicus brief in the case. Jim Guest, the president of Consumers Union, today made the following statement:
“The court’s decision is a major win for consumers. Too many drug and medical device manufacturers are evading safety laws. The FDA is clearly outmanned, and the agency needs better tools to protect consumers. Today’s decision ensures that consumers retain basic protections and remedies under state laws while we wait for long-overdue reforms at the FDA.”
Consumers Union, publisher of Consumer Reports, is an independent, nonprofit testing and information organization serving the consumer. We are a comprehensive source of unbiased advice about products and services, personal finance, health, nutrition, and other consumer concerns. Since 1936, our mission has been to test products, inform the public, and protect consumers.
Media contact:
David Butler, Consumers Union, 202-462-6262