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The Problem Of Social Cost In A Genetically Modified Age, Paul J. Heald, James C. Smith
The Problem Of Social Cost In A Genetically Modified Age, Paul J. Heald, James C. Smith
Scholarly Works
In Part I of this Article, we apply the Coase Theorem and its most useful corollary to the problem of pollen drift. We conclude that the liability of pollen polluters should be governed by balancing rules against nuisance law, to be applied on a case-by-case basis, rather than by a blanket liability or immunity rule. We also conclude that truly bystanding non-GMO farmers should have a viable defense to patent infringement because liability would result in the application of a reverse Pigovian tax that cannot be justified under accepted economic theory. Only a contextual approach can account for the wide …
Pollen Drift And The Bystanding Farmer: Harmonizing Patent Law And Common Law On The Technological Frontier, Paul J. Heald, James C. Smith
Pollen Drift And The Bystanding Farmer: Harmonizing Patent Law And Common Law On The Technological Frontier, Paul J. Heald, James C. Smith
Popular Media
Patent law provides an impressive laundry list of defenses available to farmers who are the victims of unwanted pollen drift. The common law works hand-in-hand with patent law to ensure that a farmer’s choices are respected. Strong arguments can be made that positive economic relief should be afforded to farmers who can show the value of their crop has been diminished due to pollen drift. GMO pollen drift is a new, high-tech problem, but well-established principles of federal and state law appear prepared to offer viable low-tech solutions.