In a landmark legal victory, Baltimore has obtained a $45 million settlement from pharmaceutical company Allergan for its role in the city’s opioid crisis. This decision came after the city chose to pursue its own lawsuit, opting out of a smaller global settlement in order to achieve a more substantial compensation.
According to American Military News, the settlement addresses the significant harm caused by opioid drugs, which resulted in over 866 deaths annually in Baltimore from 2017 to 2021. Rather than accept a portion of a larger settlement distributed over seven years, Baltimore sought a more immediate and substantial payout, a strategy that has paid off.
City Solicitor Ebony Thompson hailed the settlement as a historic victory for Baltimore, emphasizing the city’s commitment to fighting for justice for its residents. “By rejecting a quicker but smaller settlement, Baltimore stood up for its residents,” she stated. This settlement with Allergan marks a significant step in the city’s ongoing battle against opioid manufacturers and distributors, with additional trials against other major companies still on the horizon.
Baltimore Allocates $10 Million from Opioid Crisis Settlement to Support Local Recovery Programs
Baltimore plans to use $10 million of the settlement funds to support local recovery programs and initiatives. Specifically, $5 million will be allocated to help individuals struggling with opioid addiction through programs like peer navigation. Another $5 million will be directed toward local initiatives, including Charm City Care Connection, which provides support to victims of the opioid crisis.
Mayor Brandon Scott has pledged to ensure that the settlement funds are used effectively to address the widespread damage caused by opioids. “We want to make sure the money is spent wisely,” Scott said, promising strict oversight on how the funds are utilized to maximize their impact on the community.
This settlement represents a significant step forward in Baltimore’s efforts to combat the devastating effects of the opioid crisis and to support the recovery and well-being of its residents.
