PFAS Lawsuit
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This is an Upcoming Lawsuit
- Written by Sarah Miller
- From Legal Claim Assistant
- Last Updated
Possible Compensation:
Key PFAS Lawsuit Takeaways
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are harmful chemicals found in various products and water sources.
The PFAS lawsuit was initiated because these chemicals have been linked to serious health issues, and manufacturers allegedly failed to warn the public.
Based on similar mass tort cases, top-tier PFAS water contamination lawsuits could potentially settle for amounts ranging from $150,000 to $375,000.
PFAS Lawsuit Timeline
As of June 2024, our legal partners are accepting PFAS contamination lawsuits and continue to provide the latest updates on PFAS litigation.
We’ve compiled a timeline of key developments in PFAS lawsuits by reviewing court documents and consulting with lawyers involved in cases over PFAS health risks.
Legal experts say PFAS litigation is just starting as more companies are examined for using these toxic chemicals in their products.
Here are some PFAS lawsuit updates:
The largest PFAS class action, MDL No. 2873, continues, involving claims for environmental harm and cancer cases linked to PFAS-containing firefighting foam. BASF has agreed to a $315 million settlement with public water suppliers, marking the fourth settlement in this major lawsuit. Judge Gergel has issued a scheduling order for multiple PFAS lawsuits, focusing on kidney and testicular cancer cases, with plaintiffs required to disclose their experts by November 15, 2024. Additionally, a $750 million settlement was reached with Tyco for public water suppliers, with bellwether trials set to address specific cancers linked to PFAS exposure.
The DOJ clarified the EPA’s PFAS enforcement strategy, targeting major polluters but excluding farmers, municipal landfills, and fire departments. The EPA designated PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances, requiring contamination notifications and safety measures. Orange County filed a major PFAS lawsuit for water contamination, the first under new EPA standards. The EPA set the first national standard for PFAS in drinking water, likely leading to more lawsuits. Tyco Fire Products agreed to a $750 million settlement, adding to the $13.7 billion previously settled by Dupont and 3M. Judge Gergel approved a multi-billion dollar settlement, with 3M payments starting in summer 2024, and focused on PFAS-related injuries such as kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, and ulcerative colitis.
Massachusetts warned against buying water from Simpson Spring Company due to PFAS contamination, with legal actions expected. A federal court in California dismissed a PFAS class action against Edgewell Personal Care due to lack of specific allegations. In Connecticut, a new PFAS class action was filed, alleging Kimberly Clark contaminated land and water with PFAS chemicals. Additionally, the UN called for accountability from DuPont and Chemours for releasing PFAS into U.S. water supplies, leading to significant health issues.
A PFAS class action lawsuit was certified in New Hampshire, alleging Saint-Gobain contaminated the community with PFAS chemicals. PFAS lawsuits often reference the Leach case, which linked PFAS exposure to various cancers and health conditions, with plaintiffs arguing for the inclusion of new injuries in settlements. Judge Gergel approved a $1.185 billion settlement with Dupont, with a similar $12.5 billion settlement with 3M anticipated. The EPA proposed adding nine PFAS chemicals to its list of hazardous constituents, recognizing their carcinogenic properties. Judge Gergel also held a hearing for the 3M settlement, allowing public water systems with positive PFAS tests to be eligible for damages.
Connecticut filed two PFAS lawsuits against chemical companies for knowingly contaminating water and natural resources. A federal court dismissed a PFAS class action lawsuit due to the need for specific allegations against defendants. King Law is now representing Hoosick Falls, NY, in the PFAS class action lawsuit. The PFAS class action lawsuit is nearing a settlement for public water systems, with final approval hearings scheduled for February 2024.
The WHO confirmed that PFAS chemicals cause cancer, including testicular and kidney cancer. Judge Gergel called the $13 billion PFAS settlement for municipalities historic, with final approval expected soon. The PFAS lawsuit is progressing in three parts: contaminated water claims, personal injury claims, and land contamination claims, with settlements ongoing.
A final fairness hearing for the PFAS settlement with 3M and Dupont is scheduled for December 2023. This settlement could potentially provide over $13.6 billion to water providers.
The PFAS lawsuit is prioritizing personal injury claims related to thyroid disease, testicular cancer, kidney cancer, ulcerative colitis, and pre-eclampsia.
Over 15,000 claims have been filed against Dupont and 3M for PFAS-related health effects. The companies have paid over $11.5 billion in damages, with more expected.
Table of Contents
My name is Emily, and I drank water contaminated with PFAS. This caused me to develop severe liver problems. After a few months, I had high medical bills and missed a lot of work. Feeling overwhelmed and not knowing where to turn, I contacted Legal Claim Assistant. They listened to my story, took care of all the paperwork, and guided me through the early stages of the lawsuit. Even though the lawsuit hasn’t officially started yet, I look forward to being at the front when it does. Thanks to their help, I expect a settlement to cover my medical bills and give me the financial relief I need. I couldn’t have done it without them.
What is a PFAS lawsuit?
The PFAS lawsuit refers to a series of legal actions against chemical manufacturers related to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) contamination. These are man-made chemicals known for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks.
The lawsuits target manufacturers who produced PFAS or products containing them, alleging they knew about the health risks, failed to warn the public, and contaminated water supplies and the environment.
Parties Involved:
Plaintiffs: Public water suppliers, communities, and individuals suffering health problems due to PFAS exposure.
Defendants: Chemical companies like 3M and DuPont, who manufactured PFAS or products containing them.
Outcomes:
There have been significant class action settlements for public water suppliers:
3M Settlement: $10.3 billion to $12.5 billion over 13 years to aid in PFAS treatment and infrastructure upgrades.
DuPont Settlement: $1.185 billion distributed to public water suppliers impacted by PFAS.
What is PFAS?
PFAS stands for Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. These man-made chemicals are used in many products for their ability to repel water and grease and withstand high heat.
Where are PFAS Found?
You can find PFAS chemicals in many everyday items, including:
Firefighting foam: Once widely used but now mostly phased out due to health risks, contributing to PFAS pollution.
Non-stick cookware: Used to create the non-stick coating on many pots and pans.
Waterproofing materials: Used to make fabrics, carpets, and furniture water-resistant.
Cosmetics: Previously found in products like mascara, eyeliner, and foundation.
Why are PFAS Harmful?
PFAS are very persistent, meaning they don’t break down easily in the environment and can build up in the human body over time. Exposure to PFAS can lead to adverse health conditions, including:
Increased risk of cancer: Some PFAS chemicals are possibly carcinogenic, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
Thyroid problems: PFAS can disrupt the thyroid gland, affecting metabolism, growth, and development.
Weakened immune system: PFAS can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections.
Reproductive problems: PFAS can harm fertility and cause issues during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
PFAS side effects and symptoms
Continuous exposure to high levels of PFAS chemicals can lead to numerous health problems. PFAS water contamination lawyers are investigating the increased risk associated with these toxic substances.
Symptoms of PFAS Exposure:
Hormone disruption
Increased cholesterol levels
Reduced immune response
Developmental issues in infants and children
Decreased vaccination response in children
Increased risk of preeclampsia in pregnant women
Changes in liver enzymes
Kidney cancer
Thyroid hormone disruption
Reproductive issues
The health effects of PFAS are extensive and far-reaching. PFAS compounds build up in the body, causing symptoms to persist long after exposure. These hazardous chemicals, found in products containing PFAS such as aqueous film forming foam and waterproof clothing, contaminate groundwater and the environment.
List with PFAS chemicals
PFAS refers to a broad class of synthetic chemicals, and the full extent of their effect on the environment and humans is still unknown. Ongoing studies aim to understand the health impacts of PFAS substances on the human body.
PFAS Chemicals Linked to Health Effects:
PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid): Used in manufacturing Teflon and non-stick products, PFOA is associated with high cholesterol, increased liver enzymes, decreased vaccination response, thyroid disorders, pregnancy-induced hypertension and preeclampsia, and cancers such as testicular and kidney.
PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid): Common in firefighting foam and industrial applications, PFOS is linked to high cholesterol, thyroid disease, immunological effects, and testicular and kidney cancers.
PFNA (Perfluorononanoic Acid): Found in certain food packaging and non-stick products, PFNA is potentially linked to kidney cancer and high cholesterol.
PFHxS (Perfluorohexane Sulfonic Acid): Used in firefighting foam and industrial processes, PFHxS may impact the immune system.
GenX Chemicals: These are used to replace PFOA in Teflon manufacturing. HFPO-DA, a common GenX chemical, has shown negative health effects on the liver, blood, immune system, and developing fetuses in animal studies.
PFAS manufacturers and PFAS containing products
PFAS chemicals have been used by manufacturers since the 1940s. Their versatility and unique properties have led to a rapid expansion in their use over the past several decades.
Multiple states, individuals, and counties have filed lawsuits against major manufacturers such as 3M and DuPont for their role in the PFAS industry. Some states have restricted the use of products containing PFAS due to their harmful effects. I
n 2018, the State of Washington restricted the use of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) firefighting foam because it contains PFAS. It is alleged that companies like 3M and DuPont knew of the dangers of PFAS and continued to use the substance in their products. DuPont has also come under scrutiny for supplying PFAS to other companies.
PFAS in drinking water
PFAS chemicals have been found not only in numerous consumer products across the country but also in drinking water near communities, schools, and military bases. Long-term exposure to PFAS has been linked to serious health problems, including an increased risk of cancer.
PFAS are known as forever chemicals because they do not break down easily in the environment. These toxic PFAS can enter water sources through industrial processes, runoff from landfills, firefighting foam residue, and other methods. Chronic exposure to certain PFAS compounds in drinking water has been linked to various health risks, including liver issues, cancers, hormone disruption, and developmental problems in children.
The EPA’s proposed National Primary Drinking Water Regulation for PFAS sets legal limits for specific PFAS chemicals in water. Testing and filtration methods, such as activated carbon and reverse osmosis, can help reduce PFAS concentrations in drinking water.
Who qualifies for a PFAS lawsuit?
To be eligible for PFAS lawsuits, you must meet certain criteria. Not everyone exposed to PFAS chemicals or affected by PFAS contamination is eligible for significant compensation.
Below are the conditions you must meet to file a lawsuit.
You or someone you care about must have been in contact with PFAS chemicals sometime after 1970
Did you or someone you care about get diagnosed with any of these health problems after being exposed to PFAS?
Bladder cancer
Blood cancer
Breast cancer
Kidney cancer
Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Leukemia
Liver cancer
Myeloma
Multiple Myeloma
Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Pancreatic cancer
Preeclampsia / Low Birthweight
Prostate cancer (males only)
Testicular cancer
Thyroid cancer
Ulcerative Colitis
You must know in what year you have been diagnosed to these health problems above
It is important that you do not yet have an attorney. We cannot help you further if you do.
Choosing the right PFAS lawyer
Taking on a PFAS lawsuit requires a skilled legal professional. Here’s how to find the right PFAS lawyer to advocate for your case:
Experience & Focus: Seek attorneys specializing in environmental litigation, particularly those familiar with PFAS exposure cases. Their understanding of these complex lawsuits can be crucial.
Proven Results: Look for lawyers with a history of success in PFAS cases. Track records demonstrate their ability to secure favorable settlements for clients facing similar situations.
Client Testimonials: Reviews from past clients offer valuable insights. Positive testimonials can help you gauge the lawyer’s reputation and effectiveness in handling PFAS lawsuits.
Clear Communication: Ensure the lawyer prioritizes clear communication. They should explain the legal process, potential outcomes, and associated fees in a way that’s easy to understand.
Finding Your PFAS Lawyer: Navigating legal representation can be overwhelming. Consider seeking help from reputable attorney referral services specializing in environmental litigation. These services can connect you with qualified PFAS lawyers in your area who possess the expertise to handle your case effectively.
FAQ about the PFAS Class Action Lawsuit
PFAS chemicals, known for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks, have led to numerous legal actions to address and eliminate PFAS contamination. Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the PFAS class action lawsuit.
Based on similar mass tort cases, top-tier PFAS water contamination lawsuits could potentially settle for amounts ranging from $150,000 to $375,000. These payouts depend on the extent of contamination and the impact on public health, with PFAS claims often involving significant harm due to intentionally added PFAS chemicals.
PFAS chemicals are used in a variety of products due to their resistance to heat, water, and grease. Common PFAS products include non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, firefighting foam, and food packaging. These products contain PFAS because of their unique properties, but they also contribute to environmental contamination.
Exposure to PFAS chemicals can lead to several adverse health conditions. PFAS can disrupt hormones, weaken the immune system, cause thyroid problems, and increase the risk of certain cancers, including kidney and testicular cancer. Long-term exposure to PFAS can accumulate in the human body, causing significant harm and necessitating medical monitoring.
PFAS chemicals enter water sources through various pathways, including industrial processes, runoff from landfills, residue from firefighting foam, and other products containing PFAS. These toxic substances can contaminate groundwater and surface water, leading to significant environmental and public health concerns. The Environmental Protection Agency and PFAS water contamination lawyers are working to address PFAS contamination and regulate PFAS to protect public health.
Yes, exposure to certain PFAS chemicals has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, including kidney and testicular cancer. The Environmental Protection Agency has classified some PFAS as potentially carcinogenic, leading to strict liability claims in federal courts. Legal actions are ongoing to hold companies accountable for harming public health through the manufacturing process of products containing PFAS.
Nearly every American has been exposed to PFAS chemicals due to their widespread use in various products and their persistence in the environment. Connecticut residents and communities across the country have been affected by contaminated groundwater and surface water. Legal actions in district courts, including the sixth circuit court, are addressing the significant harm caused by PFAS exposure, with resource conservation and environmental protection as primary goals.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set strict guidelines for the levels of PFAS chemicals in drinking water, with even very low concentrations being considered dangerous. PFAS chemicals can cause significant health issues, and any detectable amount in drinking water is a cause for concern. For those affected, contacting a PFAS water contamination lawyer can help in pursuing legal action.
PFAS are called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in the environment. This persistence means they remain in soil, water, and even the human body for long periods. Products containing PFAS continue to release these chemicals into the environment, contributing to their widespread contamination.
Currently, there is no effective method to remove PFAS chemicals from the human body. These chemicals accumulate over time, causing long-term health effects. Legal actions in district courts, including cases in South Carolina, aim to address this issue by holding manufacturers accountable through federal lawsuits. In a PFAS case, the lead plaintiff represents those harmed by products containing PFAS and seeks justice and compensation through the legal system.
To remove a PFAS chemical from drinking water, advanced filtration methods such as activated carbon and reverse osmosis are commonly used. These techniques can effectively reduce PFAS levels, making the water safer for consumption. For those dealing with contamination, legal actions in district court may address the source of contamination from products containing PFAS.
Yes, PFAS chemicals are still used in various industries, although their use has been significantly restricted in many countries. Some products containing PFAS include non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and firefighting foams. Ongoing federal lawsuits aim to further regulate and limit the use of these harmful chemicals.
PFAS chemicals are known for their persistence in the human body and can remain for many years. The accumulation of PFAS over time can lead to serious health issues. Legal actions, including those involving the six PFAS, often focus on the long-term impact of these chemicals. Federal lawsuits seek to hold manufacturers accountable for the harm caused by products containing PFAS.
