Chippewa County Board approves resolution to add opioid defendants in ongoing litigation

During the Chippewa County Board's regular meeting on June 10, 2025, a significant resolution was passed concerning ongoing opioid litigation. The resolution, identified as 15-25, confirms and ratifies the authority of the county's legal counsel to add additional defendants to the existing opioid litigation, which has been in progress since 2017.

The opioid litigation involves multiple counties across Wisconsin, with Chippewa County participating as part of a larger class action against opioid manufacturers and distributors. The resolution was prompted by the discovery of new parties that should be included as defendants in the case. This move comes after concerns were raised regarding whether previous resolutions adequately authorized the addition of these new defendants.

Supervisor Flynn, who presented the resolution, emphasized the importance of reaffirming the authority of the county's outside counsel to pursue these additional claims. He noted that the engagement agreement with the counsel explicitly allows for the inclusion of more parties based on the findings from ongoing investigations. The resolution aims to clarify any ambiguities and ensure that the county's legal strategy remains robust in holding accountable those responsible for the opioid crisis.

The resolution was forwarded to the county board by the executive committee and was met with a motion for approval. This step is crucial for Chippewa County as it seeks to strengthen its position in the litigation and potentially secure compensation for the impacts of the opioid epidemic on the community.

In addition to the opioid litigation discussions, the meeting highlighted the county's ongoing commitment to addressing public health issues and ensuring that all necessary legal avenues are explored to protect the interests of its residents. The board's actions reflect a proactive approach to a complex and evolving legal landscape surrounding opioid accountability.

As the litigation continues, the county board's reaffirmation of its legal counsel's authority is a pivotal step in navigating the challenges posed by the opioid crisis, with implications for public health and community resources in Chippewa County.