Court approves “historic” $1.18 billion settlement with Dupont over PFAS water contamination
(UI) – Shkolnik and the other members of the PFAS Settlement Steering Committee praised U.S. District Judge Richard Gergel’s decision yesterday to approve a $1.18 billion settlement with DuPont regarding PFAS contamination in America’s public water systems.
The settlements encompass public water systems that have identified PFAS detections in their drinking water sources, along with systems mandated to undergo PFAS contamination testing. These settlements were reached after five years of intense litigation that included 30 million pages of discovery documents, and more than 200 depositions.
Funds from the settlements will compensate water providers for contamination with the chemicals used widely in nonstick, water- and grease-resistant products, as well as some firefighting foams.
Described as “forever chemicals” because they don’t degrade naturally in the environment, PFAS have been linked to a variety of health problems, including liver and immune-system damage and some cancers.
"We are delighted that Judge Gergel has approved the historic $1.18 billion settlement with DuPont for its role in PFAS contamination of water supplies. Funds will soon start flowing so the vital work of cleaning America's water systems can commence,’’ said Paul Napoli, partner in Napoli Shkolnik and a member of the PFAS Settlement Committee, which also includes Elizabeth Fegan of Fegan Scott, Michael London of Douglas & London, Joe Rice of Motley Rice LLC, and Scott Summy of Baron & Budd LLC. “The next step is approval of the $12.5 billion settlement with 3M, and we await Judge Gergel's decision,’’ Napoli said.
“These settlements are not just about the water we drink, but about the health of our nation,’’ Napoli said. “These settlements are a testament to our commitment to ensuring the well-being of every American.''
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