In a recent government meeting, the city of Fairborn took a significant step in the ongoing PFAS litigation by accepting a proposed settlement with major defendants DuPont and 3M. The resolution, identified as Resolution 31-twenty 4, marks a partial resolution in the legal battle surrounding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have raised health and environmental concerns nationwide.

City officials, including Mister McNamee, discussed the settlement's details, which stem from a collaborative effort initiated approximately 18 months ago. The proposed settlement involves a substantial financial commitment, with 3M contributing $2.51 billion and DuPont adding $1.85 billion to the settlement pool. The city has until July 12 to formally accept the settlement.

The settlement is structured as a 10-year payout, with a significant portion of the funds front-loaded. One-third of the proceeds is expected to be disbursed before the end of this year or shortly thereafter, with additional payments scheduled for 2025 and the remaining funds distributed over the subsequent eight years. The projected gross payout, before attorney's fees, is estimated at $4.5 billion, representing a worst-case scenario that assumes full participation from all water providers in the United States. Should any providers opt out, the settlement pool could increase.

This development is seen as a crucial first step in addressing the PFAS litigation, with city officials indicating that further settlements with additional defendants are anticipated in the future. The outcome of this settlement could have significant implications for the city and its residents as they navigate the challenges posed by PFAS contamination.