Attorneys representing Monsanto Co. and Solutia Inc. in the now renowned Anniston, Alabama PCB contamination case are seeking the removal of Circuit Judge Joel Laird. The companies claim that Laird, who is currently considering whether to order a cleanup of the area, is biased against them. According to the 30-page recusal request, Laird has threatened to jail corporate executives representing both companies for their refusal to participate in settlement talks and has repeatedly conducted interviews with the media, expressing his opinion on the case.

In February, jurors ruled in favor of residents seeking compensation for property damages caused by the production of PCBs at the Anniston plant.