Two dozen California counties are suing electric vehicle maker Tesla over its alleged improper handling of hazardous materials.
The suit, filed Tuesday in San Joaquin County Superior Court by 25 California counties, claims that Tesla repeatedly failed to properly label, handle and dispose of waste products at its facilities in the state. The waste products include paint, lead acid batteries, diesel fuel, brake fluid, aerosol and antifreeze.
If found liable, Tesla could face up to $70,000 in civil penalties per violation. According to reports, the district attorneys are seeking civil penalties as well as an injunction to force Tesla to handle the materials correctly.
In October, Tesla claimed to be in settlement negotiations with the California DAs to resolve the issue outside the courtroom. Now it seems those talks have concluded.
In 2022, Tesla revealed it was being investigated by California officials in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Since then, the company said it implemented enhanced training methods and conducted audits of its prior practices.