A settlement valued at up to $7.35 billion has been reached by 3M Company to resolve personal injury claims stemming from exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which were the subject of lawsuits filed by individuals claiming harm from these substances.
The claims involve people who experienced PFAS exposure through contaminated drinking water or direct contact with aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). AFFF, a firefighting product, has been used at various facilities, including airports, military bases, and fire training centers.
The proposed settlement aims to compensate eligible claimants diagnosed with six specified injuries, such as kidney and testicular cancer. These cases are part of Multi-District Litigation (MDL) 2873 in the US District Court for the District of South Carolina.
PFAS, synthetic chemicals found in AFFF, are used to combat Class B fuel fires. Firefighters and other personnel may have been exposed through handling or training with the foam at fire suppression facilities.
Lawsuits claim that individuals suffered injuries due to PFAS exposure, either through drinking water or occupational contact.
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Baron & Budd and Douglas & London announced the agreement. Scott Summy, leading Baron & Budd’s Environmental Litigation Group, and Michael London served as court-appointed co-lead counsel, playing key roles in negotiating the settlement.
Summy stated: “The Public Water System Settlements were the largest drinking water settlements in history, establishing a critical milestone in efforts to eliminate PFAS exposure through contaminated drinking water.
This settlement addresses the lasting consequences of that exposure, representing a major achievement in environmental litigation. It provides substantial financial recovery and recognizes that PFAS contamination impacts health, well-being, and communities beyond financial damages.”
The agreement follows earlier settlements in the same litigation involving public water systems. Between 2023 and 2025, 3M reached agreements totaling up to $14.75 billion to compensate water providers for PFAS contamination treatment costs.
London added: “Following the tremendous trial pressure that the trial team and looming trials brought to bear, 3M and the plaintiff negotiating team achieved an incredible result that will pay up to $7.35bn for the many thousands of people who suffered serious injuries from exposure to PFAS and AFFF.
