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Statement of Reggie James
Director, Southwest Regional Office of Consumers Union, Regarding
The Verdict
"While we are pleased that the jury vindicated the public's right to discuss important issues of public policy, the court's failure to rule on the constitutionality of Texas' veggie libel law leaves a frightening specter that will continue to chill legitimate public debate on food safety issues at a time when such debate is sorely needed."
What Will Happen Now
"The fact that an egg producer, AgriGeneral Co., is suing the Ohio Public Interest Research Group over comments made about the quality of repackaged eggs under Ohio's veggie Libel law, and emu ranchers are suing Honda for a commercial in which Honda referred to emus as "the pork of the future" suggests we will be seeing more costly, frivolous cases brought for the purpose of intimidation.
Until these laws are clearly ruled unconstitutional, there should be efforts in every state that has a law to repeal them at the first opportunity to do so. Consumers Union will seek the repeal of Texas' law when the Texas Legislature returns in January 1999."
Credit Due
"Oprah Winfrey and Howard Lyman each deserve credit for standing and fighting against the strong arm tactics of the plaintiffs in this case. Although the Texas law was not struck down, putting up a strong defense and acting to galvanize public opinion in favor of the first amendment and against corporate bullying will thaw at least some of the chill created by this law."
The Southwest Regional Office of Consumers Union opposed the Texas agriculture disparagement act when it was filed in Texas.
Consumers Union, publisher of Consumer Reports, is an independent, nonprofit testing and information organization serving only 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.
