Johnson & Johnson Reaches $700M Settlement With 43 States Over Asbestos in Talc Products

Jun 12, 2024, 12:20 AM

Johnson & Johnson has agreed to pay $700 million to settle an investigation by 43 U.S. states, including Massachusetts, and Washington, D.C. into the marketing of its talc-based products, including baby powder. The settlement addresses allegations that the company misled consumers about the safety of these products, which were claimed to be contaminated with asbestos, a known carcinogen. The consent judgment filed by state attorneys general, including Anthony Brown and Kwame Raoul, aims to resolve claims that Johnson & Johnson engaged in deceptive marketing practices. Illinois will receive $29 million, while Arizona and Maryland will get $15.5 million and nearly $15 million, respectively, from the settlement.