Photo by Wesley Tingey on Unsplash
3M Settles Earplug Lawsuit: $253 Million to US Veterans
January 18, 2024
3M, a multinational conglomerate, is making a substantial $253 million payout to thousands of U.S. military service members and veterans. These individuals have maintained that using the company’s earplugs resulted in their hearing loss, a complication that has undeniably impacted their quality of life.
This significant payout, which forms part of a substantial $6 billion settlement, offers some monetary relief to over 30,000 military service members and veterans. These payments are scheduled for distribution by the end of January. As per the terms of this agreement, those beneficiaries will forfeit the right to future legal claims against 3M, closing this chapter of contention for both parties.
This settlement marks the end of a rigorous five-year legal battle between 3M and the affected veterans. The heart of the issue: The claimants contended they had sustained substantial hearing loss and developed tinnitus — a disturbing, constant ringing sound in the ears — which they associated with the use of 3M’s combat earplugs. These earplugs were being used during their service in close proximity to heavy artillery, rockets, and small arms.
Throughout this drawn-out process, representatives for the veterans have advocated tirelessly for justice. The resolution in the form of this settlement is viewed as a significant victory, validating their unwavering commitment to achieving fair compensation for their clients.
The broader group of 276,000 claimants, who are all part of a lawsuit against 3M, may now be more inclined to opt into the settlement instead of proceeding to a potentially prolonged trial. At this point, however, the specific sum each individual will receive as part of the payouts remains to be clearly stipulated.
Under the comprehensive terms of the agreement, 3M has committed to a considerable payout. Over the period from 2023 to 2029, the claimants will receive $5 billion in cash and $1 billion in the form of 3M common stock. Moreover, in a precursor to the latest round of payments, 3M disbursed $250 million to approximately 30,000 claimants in December of last year.
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