Deal May End States' Legal Fight With Sacklers

A long-running legal fight over the nation's opioid epidemic moved a big step closer to its finale on Monday: All 50 states agreed to a $7.4 billion settlement with Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family, reports Axios. The deal also is backed by the District of Columbia and all US territories. NPR reports that members of the Sackler family are expected to contribute up to $7 billion. Unlike a previous version of the settlement that was struck down by the Supreme Court, this one leaves a key door open: Individuals harmed by opioids can still sue the Sacklers—if they choose not to take part in the deal.

"Creditors can preserve their right to take legal action," said Purdue, the maker of OxyContin, in a statement. If the deal is finalized in court, the money would be paid out over 15 years, with the bulk coming in the first three. It's earmarked for addiction treatment, education, and prevention, per ABC News. The Sacklers would also formally cut ties with Purdue and the opioid business for good, while the company emerges from bankruptcy. "No settlement can undo the harm, but this will provide critical resources to fight the epidemic," said New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin.

The Sackler family continues to deny any wrongdoing or criminal activity. But New York Attorney General Letitia James said the deal will "hold the Sackler family accountable" for their "leading role in fueling the epidemic of opioid addiction and overdoses." (This content was created with the help of AI. Read our AI policy.)