Napoli Shkolnik Announces $316.5 Million Settlement with BASF Corporation in AFFF MDL

Napoli Shkolnik, along with Plaintiffs’ Co-Lead and Interim Class Counsel, is proud to announce a $316.5 million settlement with BASF Corporation (“BASF”) in the ongoing multi-district litigation (“MDL”) over the contamination of drinking water with toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (“PFAS”) resulting from the widespread use of aqueous film-forming foam (“AFFF”). The settlement was negotiated by Napoli Shkolnik Partner Paul J. Napoli and the other Co-Lead Counsel in the AFFF MDL and resolves BASF’s liability for claims held by Public Water Systems across the country that have been impacted by actual or threatened contamination of their water systems with PFAS.

This settlement with BASF comes on the heels of successful negotiations with three other major defendants—3M Company, DuPont, and Tyco Fire Products—to resolve their respective liabilities to Public Water Systems for PFAS contamination. Collectively, these settlements are expected to provide more than $14 billion in compensation to Public Water Systems across the country that are grappling with PFAS contamination in their drinking water supplies.

“This settlement underscores our continued commitment to protecting public health and ensuring that communities across the country have access to clean water. It also sends a clear message that companies who manufactured PFAS or products that contained PFAS will be held accountable for the harm they have caused to the environment and individuals exposed to these toxic chemicals. Although this settlement represents another major victory for those impacted by PFAS, there is still a lot more to be done and our team remains committed to seeking justice for the individuals and communities injured by the pervasive PFAS contamination that exists in this country,” said Napoli Shkolnik Partner Paul Napoli.

PFAS, also known as the “forever chemicals”, are manmade, synthetic compounds that research has shown pose significant risks to the environment and human health. Subject to certain eligibility requirements, Public Water Systems will be able to seek compensation under the settlement to put towards the cost of treatment systems or other efforts aimed at remediating the PFAS contamination in their systems and/or water sources, thereby ensuring the long-term sustainability and safety of public water supplies nationwide.

“Access to clean drinking water is not just a basic human need but a fundamental right,” says Napoli Shkolnik Partner Andrew Croner. “In recent years, our firm has devoted an incalculable amount of time towards ensuring that right remains protected for all Americans and this settlement represents another significant step in achieving that goal.”

“We are proud of the work that has led to these successful outcomes for our clients,” adds firm Partner Coral M. Odiot-Rivera. “These achievements are not just legal successes but have a meaningful impact in restoring the communities' trust in their right to clean water."

Learn more by clicking here to sign up and protect your water system: www.WaterUtilitySettlement.com

About Napoli Shkolnik

Napoli Shkolnik is a national law firm providing representation in complex environmental litigation, including cases involving hazardous substances and their adverse impact on communities. With a dedicated team of attorneys and a proven track record of success, Napoli Shkolnik provides exceptional legal representation and fights for justice on behalf of those affected by environmental wrongdoing.

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