Closing arguments were heard today in a case that pits the state of California against canned tuna companies. The suit alleges these companies violate Prop 65, by not warning consumers about the risks of mercury in tuna. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has the story.
Mercury is a powerful neurotoxin that can cause developmental problems.
Prop 65 requires companies to notify consumers about harmful chemicals in their products.
Canned tuna companies argue federal advisories on mercury in fish trump state requirements.
Tom Dresslar is with the state attorney general's office.
Dresslar: "The warning that we envision in this case would not conflict with the FDA advice. In fact, it would pretty much track what the FDA already tells consumers about canned tuna."
But the state wants canned tuna companies to post warnings on store shelves.
A judge is expected to issue a ruling within the next few months.
Kenny Goldberg, KPBS News.
