Judge clears distribution of $626 million Flint water crisis settlement funds
FLINT, Mich. — A federal judge has authorized the distribution of payments from the $626-million Flint water crisis settlement, clearing the way for compensation to more than 26,000 claimants more than a decade after the crisis began.
U.S. District Judge Judith E. Levy issued the order Wednesday, approving the claims administration process and authorizing Special Master Deborah Greenspan to finalize award terms and begin issuing payments, ABC12 News reported. The ruling allows previously corrected claims to move forward and enables individuals who were minors at the time of settlement approval but are now adults to complete required documentation online.
The settlement fund includes $600 million from the State of Michigan, $20 million from Flint’s insurance carriers, $5 million from McLaren Flint Hospital and $1.2 million from Rowe Professional Services. Veolia North America, which served as a consultant on Flint’s water system, contributed an additional $53 million. Separate litigation against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency remains ongoing and could further increase the total fund.
Claims are divided into 30 categories based on age and documented lead exposure, with payments ranging from $1,000 to $100,000. Children exposed to elevated lead levels between birth and age six are expected to receive the highest awards. Claims for minors that are not approved will be placed into a Future Children’s Fund until eligibility requirements are met, ABC12 News reported.
Distribution will begin with residential property claims to validate the payment system. Claimants will receive notification letters containing unique access codes to select their preferred payment method and formally accept settlement terms through an online portal. Greenspan is also authorized to negotiate Medicare liens and oversee reimbursements for certain claimant-related costs, including probate expenses, as well as manage the distribution of attorneys’ fees in accordance with prior court orders.
While court approval marks a major procedural milestone, some Flint residents have expressed continued skepticism, saying confidence will come only once funds are received.
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