In breaking news, Johnson & Johnson (J&J) has tentatively agreed to pay around $700 million to settle an investigation involving attorney general offices from over 40 U.S. states regarding its talcum-based baby powder. This critical move aims to address ongoing legal challenges related to talc contamination with asbestos, a cancer-causing mineral, when mined for the powder. While J&J insists its talc-based powders are safe, the proposed settlement does not resolve personal-injury lawsuits from over 52,000 plaintiffs claiming a link between Johnson’s Baby Powder and cancer. Facing a broader financial burden, J&J had proposed a rejected bankruptcy plan, estimating total settlement costs between $10 billion and $15 billion. Despite discontinuing talc-based baby powder sales in the U.S., J&J retains legal liabilities, and the company explores various paths to resolve the extensive talc litigation, including potential appeals to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Johnson & Johnson to Pay $700 Million to Settle Baby Powder Probe | NYT
J&J agrees to resolve 42 U.S. states' talc investigations | Reuters
