Chicago City Wire

Michael Patrick Flanagan, a former U.S. Representative for Illinois’ 5th Congressional District, has expressed concerns about the impact of mass tort litigation on judicial efficiency and fairness. In an op-ed for The Center Square, he described such litigation targeting consumer products as a growing threat.

"The next battlefield of mass tort litigation is taking shape – and this time, it's aimed at America's household pantries and bathroom cabinets," said Patrick Flanagan. "We cannot afford another flood of lawsuits that overwhelms the system, delays justice, and turns public health into a commercial opportunity. There is a clear difference between a focused, strategic use of public authority and a scattered rush to sue from every city hall and county boardroom in the country. What we need is a unified front, disciplined leadership, and a legal strategy rooted in the public good – not private gain."

According to Law360, attorneys at the New Jersey State Bar Association’s annual meeting have discussed the increasing prevalence of mass tort litigation involving consumer products and pharmaceuticals. They noted that overlapping lawsuits from different jurisdictions pose challenges for case management and court schedules. Efforts to streamline and coordinate these cases are currently underway.

The New York Times reported that the opioid epidemic in the United States has led to thousands of lawsuits filed by states, cities, and counties against pharmaceutical companies and distributors. These legal actions aim to secure compensation for the public health and financial impacts associated with opioid addiction. The sheer volume of lawsuits has resulted in complex court proceedings and multi-district litigation.

According to the National Center for State Courts, state court systems track and report data on case filings, including those related to mass torts and complex civil litigation. An increase in these types of cases can lead to higher caseloads and greater administrative demands on courts. Accurate data collection is essential for courts to allocate resources effectively and manage workflow efficiently.

Flanagan served as a U.S. Representative for Illinois' 5th Congressional District and was a member of the Committee on the Judiciary during his term in Congress. He is also an attorney and a retired U.S. Army captain.