PFAS Water Provider Settlement: What Water Authorities and Municipalities Need to Know

1. ALL municipal drinking water providers (Cities, Towns, Counties, Water Authorities serving more than 25 people),
2. Who have ANY detectible level of PFAS water contamination.

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In the evolving landscape of environmental litigation, the recent PFAS water contamination settlement on June 22nd, 2023 stands as a watershed moment. 3M Co., a titan in the chemical industry, conceded to a monumental class action settlement of $10.3 billion, with projections potentially touching the $12.5 billion mark, in response to PFAS contamination allegations. As these chemicals, prevalent in myriad daily-use products, infiltrate our water sources, the health repercussions become increasingly concerning.

PFAS, known as “forever chemicals,” persistently linger in the environment, posing grave health risks upon exposure. The significance of this settlement extends beyond financial restitution for contaminated wells and affected communities; it underscores the importance of safeguarding public health and demanding accountability.

For water providers, authorities, and local governments contemplating their stance in the wake of the monumental settlement of this class action lawsuit, Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm emerges as the lighthouse amidst these tumultuous waters. With a stellar reputation, partnerships with some of the nations leading water contamination attorneys, and deep-rooted passion for justice, we provide both comprehensive information about the PFAS class action settlements and unmatched legal representation to those navigating the intricacies of PFAS-related claims for compensation for damages. Dive in with us, as we elucidate the essence of PFAS, the criticality of the legal settlement, and as the legal proceedings wind down we look at long-term solutions for those affected water treatment providers and water authorities.

Breaking News on the Dupont PFAS Class Action Settlement Notice: September 2023

Details of the PFAS Water Provider Settlement Agreement

In a landmark moment of environmental litigation, a comprehensive settlement was reached with chemical industry behemoth, 3M Co., along with other implicated chemical companies and responsible parties. The resolution came after almost a decade of relentless pursuit for justice. The settlement addresses contamination claims surrounding PFAS, the notorious “forever chemicals” found in numerous everyday products.  For more information about the PFAS water contamination settlement involving 3M and local water authorities, please review the information below which outlines some of the details of the settlement agreement.

Eligibility and Financial Distribution:

Municipal water authorities that have detected any trace of PFAS — including PFOA and PFOS — qualify to be a part of this litigation and the subsequent settlement. The majority, in their annual water quality testing, will already have documented these chemicals. Financial gains acquired from this litigation are earmarked for the development and installation of systems to purge the PFAS contamination from the municipal water supply. After the unveiling of the settlement on June 22nd, protocols for the distribution of these funds have been initiated. This settlement will proceed as a conventional class action settlement. All eligible municipal water authorities can expect to receive a notification regarding the proposed class action settlement, alongside an opt-out provision, by year’s end.

The settlement agreement and the proposed class notice lists Phase 1 Qualifying Class Member and Phase 2 Qualifying Class Members.  If your water authority or municipality is found on either one of these lists, you may be eligible to join in the class settlement and receive significant financial compensation.

Timeline and Benefits of Joining:

Choosing to opt into this settlement does not prevent a municipality from sourcing funds elsewhere, such as federal funding or any potential recovery achieved by their State’s Attorney General’s Office through their natural resources claim. The effort required on the part of municipalities has been made as straightforward and hassle-free as possible. Initially, all that’s asked for is the most recent test results and some additional data, to be provided within a span of 90 days post the complaint filing. Anticipated fund disbursement will see 67% of treatment infrastructure funds released in July 2024, while the remaining amount will be dispatched by April 2025. Furthermore, operations and maintenance funds are set to be distributed annually from 2025 to 2033.

Expertise on Your Side:

Our consortium of partner Firms and Attorneys on this matter include some of the nation’s foremost water contamination attorneys. Aligning with our consortium ensures top-tier representation, maximizing your settlement prospects. Our collective acumen, vast knowledge, and resource arsenal are primed to guide you through these intricate proceedings.

Impact of the PFAS Water Provider Settlement

The settlement with 3M regarding the use of PFAS in consumer products and firefighting foams is a monumental move, potentially offering respite to individuals affected by these “forever chemicals.” For the public exposed to PFAS, this settlement signifies recognition of the potential dangers they face, while water providers could obtain funds to purify their water supplies.

However, this decision has faced resistance. A coalition of 23 attorneys general, including Colorado’s Attorney General Phil Weiser, have voiced their objections to the proposed settlement. Weiser contends that the settlement fails to sufficiently hold 3M accountable for contaminating America’s drinking water, emphasizing the degraded water quality and public health implications for Coloradans. The objection further argues that the agreement infringes on states’ rights to regulate pollution and could jeopardize drinking water providers by potentially requiring them to shield 3M from future PFAS-related lawsuits. This underscores the profound concern that the settlement might not adequately serve justice or safeguard the environment and public health.

Environmentally, while the settlement raises awareness about chemical pollutants and fosters clean water initiatives, it simultaneously underscores the profound, long-term challenge of addressing “forever chemicals” in our ecosystem. The nuanced implications of this agreement, especially considering the diverse views of stakeholders and the reservations of various states’ legal entities, reveal its multifaceted impact on public health, the environment, and governance.

FAQ Regarding the PFAS Water Provider Settlement

1. What is PFAS?

PFAS, or Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of man-made chemicals used in a range of products from firefighting foam and non-stick cookware to stain-resistant fabrics.

2. How does PFAS get into water?

PFAS can contaminate water through various means such as industrial spills, wastewater treatment plants, landfills, and the use of firefighting foam in proximity to water sources.

3. What are the health effects of PFAS?

Exposure to PFAS has been linked to health problems including cancer, liver damage, reduced immunity, and potential reproductive issues.

4. What is the PFAS water provider settlement?

The PFAS water provider settlement refers to the agreement reached earlier this year between water providers and those affected by PFAS contamination in their drinking water. It involves significant financial compensation for the affected parties and actions by the water provider to enhance water treatment and monitoring processes.

5. How do I know if my water is contaminated with PFAS?

Reach out to your local water provider to inquire if they’ve tested for PFAS. The EPA’s website also lists water systems known to have PFAS contamination.

6. What Water Providers are eligible to join the PFAS water provider settlement?

All drinking water providers, including municipalities, cities, towns, and water authorities whose source water (wells, ground water, surface water) have been tested and indicate detectible levels of PFAS are eligible to join in and receive settlement funds from the PFAS water provider settlement.  The levels of PFAS in your source water do NOT need to be above your local State regulatory limit nor above the proposed EPA limit of 4 ppt.

7. How can I get involved in a PFAS water provider settlement? If you are a water provider who has detectible levels of PFAS (PFOA or PFOS), you need to act now.  The time is limited to join in this settlement agreement.  Call the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm today at 888-348-2735 and speak with one of our experienced PFAS attorneys.

8. Why are state attorneys general opposing the settlement? A coalition of attorneys general from multiple states has raised objections, expressing concerns that the settlement doesn’t hold responsible companies sufficiently accountable and might infringe on states’ rights to regulate pollution.

9. What is the potential impact of this settlement on the environment? While the settlement aims to rectify water contamination and bolster clean water initiatives, the enduring presence of “forever chemicals” in ecosystems highlights the extended challenge of managing such pollutants.

10. What measures are being taken to prevent future contamination? Part of the settlement’s provisions includes commitments by water providers to improve water treatment practices, ensuring reduced chances of future PFAS contamination. It also emphasizes awareness and strict regulations around PFAS production and use.

CONTACT THE MARIN, BARRETT, AND MURPHY LAW FIRM TO JOIN THE PFAS WATER PROVIDER SETTLEMENT TODAY

In today’s challenging landscape, where PFAS contamination poses significant threats to both our environment and public health, it’s essential to seek skilled legal guidance. The Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm stands at the forefront of this battle, armed with deep expertise and a fierce commitment to justice. If you are a drinking water provider and you have detectible levels of PFAS in your source water, our seasoned team of attorneys is here to champion your rights and ensure that you receive maximum compensation for your contaminated water. We understand the intricate web of regulations, scientific research, and corporate maneuvers surrounding these toxic chemicals, and we are prepared to take decisive action.

Moreover, the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm is proud to collaborate with a consortium of the most experienced water contamination firms in the country. This strategic partnership allows us to pool our collective knowledge, resources, and expertise to tackle PFAS drinking water, waste water and personal injury lawsuits effectively. By combining forces, we strengthen our ability to hold responsible parties accountable for PFAS contamination and secure compensation for our clients.  Joining this litigation by filing a complaint and suing the responsible manufacturers, companies, and firms with with legal representation by some of the nation’s top rated drinking water authority lawyers and attorneys is your best course of action. Now that the 3M PFAS class action lawsuit has been settled, there is limited time for remaining drinking water authorities to file a lawsuit for PFAS contamination.

Manufacturers and polluters have long benefited from the use of these ‘forever chemicals’, often at the expense of unsuspecting communities and individuals. We believe in holding these entities accountable. With a track record of seeking substantial settlements and advocating for regulatory change, the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm is uniquely positioned to navigate the complexities of PFAS litigation. We are dedicated to pursuing the truth, obtaining fair compensation for victims, and driving systemic change to prevent future harm. Don’t let the weight of battling large corporations deter you; our firm is ready and capable of leveling the playing field. Let us be your steadfast ally in the fight against PFAS contamination and its devastating consequences.