A California citizen has taken legal action against a corporation for allegedly exposing consumers to harmful chemicals without proper warning. Ema Bell filed a complaint on March 27, 2025, in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, against Koolatron Corporation. The lawsuit claims that the company violated Proposition 65 by failing to provide necessary warnings about di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), a chemical known to cause cancer and reproductive toxicity.
According to the complaint, DEHP has been recognized as a hazardous chemical under California law since January 1, 1988. Proposition 65 mandates businesses with ten or more employees operating in California to label products containing such chemicals if they pose exposure risks above safe harbor levels. Bell alleges that Koolatron Corporation sold Michelin coolers containing DEHP without the required warnings, thus violating Health & Safety Code § 25249.5 et seq. The plaintiff argues that this omission puts consumers at risk of exposure through dermal absorption and ingestion when using these products.
The lawsuit details how DEHP was listed as a carcinogen and later as a reproductive toxin by the State of California. Bell contends that Koolatron's failure to inform consumers about these risks is not only negligent but also unlawful under Proposition 65 regulations. The plaintiff seeks civil penalties amounting to $2,500 per day for each violation over up to 365 days and demands injunctive relief requiring Koolatron to comply with labeling requirements moving forward.
Bell's attorneys emphasize the public interest aspect of this case, highlighting their client's role in promoting awareness about toxic exposures in consumer products sold within California. They assert that despite notifying Koolatron and relevant authorities about these violations back in March 2024, no corrective actions have been taken by the defendant or any public enforcement agency so far.
In her pursuit of justice for affected Californians, Bell requests reasonable attorney’s fees and costs alongside other relief deemed appropriate by the court. Her legal team comprises Evan J. Smith and Ryan P. Cardona from Brodsky Smith law firm based in Beverly Hills.
This case is presided over by judges at the Superior Court of California in San Francisco under Case ID: CGC25623713.