$7.4B Purdue Pharma opioid settlement takes effect; Missouri to receive more than $91M
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced that a $7.4 billion settlement with Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family has taken effect, resolving years of litigation tied to the opioid crisis.
The agreement follows nearly a decade of investigations and lawsuits by attorneys general nationwide. Missouri joined the multistate investigation in 2016 and filed suit against Purdue in 2017.
The settlement provides funding to communities, individuals and organizations affected by opioid addiction. Missouri is expected to receive more than $91 million.
“For too long, parents, children and communities across our state have borne the heartbreaking costs of the opioid epidemic,” Hanaway said. “This settlement brings accountability and a measure of justice for the victims.”
The agreement comes after Purdue filed for bankruptcy in 2019 amid mounting legal claims. Attorneys general renegotiated terms after the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated parts of an earlier deal in 2024.
Officials said the settlement bars the Sackler family from selling opioids in the United States and will direct funds toward addiction treatment, prevention and recovery efforts over the next 15 years.
Valerie Huhn, director of the Missouri Department of Mental Health, said the funding will support expanded public health responses.
“The opioid epidemic has taken an enormous toll on Missouri communities,” Huhn said. “These dollars are critical for treatment and prevention programs.”
Under the agreement, most funds will be distributed in the first three years. The Sackler family is expected to pay more than $1.5 billion immediately, with additional payments scheduled through 2029. Purdue will also contribute about $900 million.
The settlement requires the release of millions of documents related to Purdue’s opioid business and transfers the company’s manufacturing operations to a new entity, Knoa Pharma LLC, which will be subject to oversight and restrictions on opioid marketing.
The agreement was joined by attorneys general from all eligible U.S. states and territories.
