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CINCINNATI — The Kroger Co. today said it has agreed to pay up to $1.2 billion to U.S. states, subdivisions and Native American tribes to settle the majority of claims that it fueled the opioid epidemic through lax oversight of its pill sales.
That settlement would allow for “full resolution” of all claims on behalf of those parties, Kroger said in a release press release.
The settlement is not an admission of wrongdoing or liability, the company said.
“Kroger will continue to vigorously defend against any other claims and lawsuits relating to opioids that the final agreement does not resolve,” the company said in the release.
Kroger will pay $1.2 billion to U.S. states and subdivisions and $36 million to Native American tribes over 11 years. The company expects a $1.4 billion charge related to the settlements and associated legal fees during the second quarter.
State and local governments have filed thousands of lawsuits against drug companies and wholesalers accused of contributing to the oversupply of prescription drugs that contributed to the opioid epidemic.
Several companies announced nationwide opioid settlements within the last year.
Walgreens Boots Alliance agreed to pay just under $5 billion to U.S. states, local governments and tribes to resolve all opioid claims. The pharmacy retailer also reached a opioid-related settlement with West Virginia.
CVS Health also agreed to pay $5 billion to U.S. states, local governments and tribes, and reached a settlement with West Virginia.
Walmart last year agreed to pay $3.1 billion to settle claims of U.S. states and local governments. The retailer also reached a settlement with West Virginia.
