3M to pay New Jersey $450M to settle ‘forever chemicals’ claims

3M has agreed to pay New Jersey up to $450 million to settle claims that it played a role in the long-term contamination of various sites in the state, including the 1,445-acre Chambers Works facility in Deepwater. The settlement, announced by New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin and Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette, resolves accusations against 3M regarding the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as forever chemicals. These persistent chemicals are commonly found in everyday items and have been linked to health risks, including cancer. The settlement also addresses separate lawsuits filed against 3M in 2019 related to forever chemicals contamination at the Chambers Works facility and the Parlin facility. By agreeing to the settlement, 3M avoids a trial set to begin this week concerning the Chambers Works facility complaint. The agreement includes payments of up to $325 million by 2034 and an additional $125 million by 2050. 3M clarified that the settlement does not imply liability and stated that it will continue its efforts to phase out forever chemicals manufacturing.