3M has settled a lawsuit with the State of Minnesota for $850 million after it was alleged that chemicals polluted state waters leading to injuries and birth defects among citizens. 
The settlement was announced in February. We reported about the lawsuit last November.
According to Bloomberg, money from the settlement will be used to pay for water and sustainability projects moving forward. The chemicals allegedly came from Scotchgard ingredients.
The state said it found that it had higher levels of cancer and premature births outside Minneapolis and would seek punitive damages prior to filing the lawsuit. Originally, the issue was argued among environmentalists who claimed pollutants were impacting fish and waterways in 2010.
The main chemicals allegedly involved in the pollution are PFOS and PFOA, as well as perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) which are used in waterproof treatments and are found in some food packaging.
The state pursued funds to “relieve the burden on taxpayers who may otherwise have to pay for these problems,” a lawyer said, according to Bloomberg.
For more information, you can read the source link below.
Birth Injuries Can Lead to a Lifetime of Distress
Birth and fetal injuries can lead to a lifetime of costly medical care and a decreased life-expectancy for victims. If a company recklessly endangers citizens by polluting the environment, it should be held liable.
If you are the loving parent of a child injured prior to or during child birth, speak to our birth injury attorneys. We can investigate your claims and determine if you can hold a company, healthcare provider or doctor liable for irresponsibility.
Our attorneys include a medical doctor, who is expertly qualified in handling claims. For a free discussion about your case, call 1-(800)-460-0606.
