FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 26, 2026

Springfield, IL – The Illinois Stewardship Alliance (ISA) today expressed disappointment following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Monsanto Company v. Durnell, a ruling that limits the ability of farmers and other individuals to pursue state-level claims against pesticide manufacturers over alleged failures to warn about potential health risks.

The decision represents a setback for transparency and accountability at a time when many farmers are seeking greater access to information about the products they use and the risks they may pose.

“We are deeply disappointed by this ruling,” said Liz Moran Stelk, Executive Director of the Illinois Stewardship Alliance. “Farmers deserve access to complete and transparent information about the products they use, the risks those products may pose to their health, their families, and their land, and the ability to seek accountability when they believe critical information has been withheld. This decision moves us in the wrong direction.”

ISA joined a coalition of farmer and farmworker organizations that filed an amicus brief supporting Missouri farmer John Durnell. The coalition argued that federal pesticide regulations should not prevent states from providing additional protections when questions arise about product safety.

“Farmers should not have to choose between protecting their livelihoods and protecting their health,” Stelk said. “Farmers and farmworkers are the people closest to the land and closest to the consequences of these decisions. Unfortunately, this ruling makes it harder for farmers, farmworkers, and rural families to have their concerns heard.”

The Alliance also rejected arguments that greater corporate accountability would harm agriculture.

“When decision-making power is concentrated in the hands of a few large corporations, transparency and accountability becomes even more important, not less,” Stelk said. “The future of agriculture depends on ensuring that farmers have access to independent information, meaningful choices, and the tools they need to make informed decisions for their operations.”

“Across Illinois, farmers are demonstrating that productive agriculture and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand,” Stelk said. “Many are reducing reliance on costly inputs, improving resilience, and proving that a different path is possible. That work will continue regardless of this outcome.”

The Alliance called on policymakers, regulators, researchers, and agricultural leaders to pursue stronger transparency measures, ensure that farmers have access to independent information about the products they use, and address industry consolidation that limits farmers’ choices. 

Despite the Court’s decision, ISA said it remains committed to advancing farming systems that reduce reliance on synthetic inputs and strengthen the long-term resilience of farms and rural communities.

“Building a food and farm system that is more resilient, democratic, and responsive to the people most affected by it is long-term work, and we remain committed to that vision,” Stelk said.

For additional information or an interview, please contact:
Nathan Ryder – Communications Coordinator