Court Greenlights 3M's Multi-Billion Dollar Settlement for PFAS Contamination

3M is about to write some hefty checks. The Minnesota-based chemical manufacturer  just announced a multi-billion-dollar settlement over contamination of U.S. public drinking water systems with PFAS, those notorious chemicals we're all starting to learn a bit too much about.

The settlement, approved by the U.S. District Court in Charleston, South Carolina, is not just pocket change; we're talking about an amount that could swing between $10.5 billion and $12.5 billion through 2036, all hinging on what future PFA contamination tests unveil.

Mike Roman, 3M’s chairman and CEO, emphasized the company’s commitment: "This is yet another important step forward for 3M as we continue to deliver on our priorities. The final approval of this settlement and continued progress toward exiting all PFAS manufacturing by the end of 2025 will further our efforts to reduce risk and uncertainty as we move forward.”

The catalyst for the 3M settlement was a lawsuit led by Stuart, Florida, representing about 300 communities against the producers of PFAS-laden firefighting foam. The settlement will facilitate the removal of PFAS from affected water systems. 

Scott Summy, representing the plaintiffs, remarked, "That's great news for American citizens who drink from that water. It'll help rid our public drinking water systems of PFAS, and that's the most important thing about the settlement." It underscores a collective move towards ensuring clean water for all.

A legislative leap forward

Six years ago, 3M's $850 million agreement with the state marked one of the U.S.'s largest environmental settlements. Dubbed "forever chemicals", PFAS do not break down and are linked to serious health issues, including liver, immune system, and cancer risks. As regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency enforce stricter controls and states enact bans, the message is clear: the era of PFAS is ending.

Last year, a law was enacted that will phase out PFAS in certain consumer products by 2025, leading to a complete prohibition by 2032. However, banning these substances is just a piece of the puzzle. Communities like Stuart are pushing for government support to include financial backing in this year's budget specifically for reducing PFAS levels in their local infrastructure.

Beyond 3M's massive settlement, more companies are dealing with legal actions linked to PFAS. Health-Ade Kombucha is accused of containing these harmful chemicals in its supposedly healthy drinks. Meanwhile, Kimberly-Clark in Connecticut is also in legal trouble with residents of New Milford claiming the company’s operations have led to PFAS entering the local environment.