“Toxic chromium” fear-mongering

Erin Brockovich became rich and famous by promoting the notion that people in Hinkley, CA, got cancer because of hexavalent chromium (Chromium-6) in drinking water. Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) settled a 1993 lawsuit for $333 million, rather than risk trial by a jury frightened by a steady drumbeat of horror stories from lawyers, activists, celebrities, “journalists,” and hired “experts.” The lawyers got $134 million in fees, and Ms. Brockovich pocketed a cool $2-million bonus – plus movie royalties and other cash. Now Ms. B is trying to reprise her California success, by bringing the Cr-6 saga to North Carolina. She [...]