Supreme Court blocks Purdue Pharma opioid settlement
The Supreme Court blocked Purdue Pharma's opioid settlement, questioning the Sackler family's immunity request. Justices Gorsuch and Kavanaugh expressed concerns over victim compensation. The decision halts the process, highlighting the opioid crisis complexities.
Read original article
The Supreme Court blocked the Purdue Pharma opioid settlement, jeopardizing billions of dollars intended for victims. The ruling invalidated legal protections for the Sackler family, who had agreed to pay $6 billion to settle claims but sought immunity from future lawsuits. Justice Neil Gorsuch highlighted the lack of consent from affected parties and criticized the Sacklers for not fully disclosing their assets. Justice Brett Kavanaugh dissented, emphasizing the impact on over 100,000 opioid victims who may now lose their expected compensation. The decision halts the settlement process, requiring new negotiations that may not lead to a resolution. The case sheds light on Purdue's role in the opioid crisis and the controversial tactics used to market OxyContin. Despite the setback, the Sackler family remains committed to the settlement, citing concerns over potential litigation costs if the agreement is voided. The ruling underscores the complexity of addressing the aftermath of the opioid epidemic and the challenges in holding responsible parties accountable.
Related
The Opaque Industry Inflating Prices for Prescription Drugs
Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) like CVS Health, Cigna, and UnitedHealth Group are criticized for increasing prescription drug costs in the US. Despite claims of cost reduction, PBMs allegedly steer towards expensive drugs, charge high markups, and prioritize financial gains over patients. Lawmakers are scrutinizing their practices for potential price inflation and anticompetitive behavior.
US prosecutors recommend Justice Department criminally charge Boeing
US prosecutors recommend criminal charges against Boeing for violating a settlement related to 737 MAX crashes. Boeing disputes claims, faces potential charges, and negotiates with the Justice Department. Families seek hefty fines and prosecution.
Company linked to federal execution spree will no longer produce key drug
A Connecticut chemicals manufacturer, Absolute Standards, halts pentobarbital production due to pressure from lawmakers and activists. This decision may affect future executions, prompting debates on lethal injection ethics.
SCOTUS Rules That US Government Can Continue Talking to Social Media Companies
The Supreme Court allows US government to communicate with social media companies, overturning an injunction. Court finds lack of evidence for direct censorship injuries. Decision may increase government-platform interaction.
Supreme Court strikes anti-corruption law that bars officials from taking gifts
The U.S. Supreme Court overturned part of an anti-corruption law, distinguishing between bribery and gratuities. The ruling impacts state and local officials and reflects a trend of narrowing public corruption laws.
1 commentsRelated
The Opaque Industry Inflating Prices for Prescription Drugs
Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) like CVS Health, Cigna, and UnitedHealth Group are criticized for increasing prescription drug costs in the US. Despite claims of cost reduction, PBMs allegedly steer towards expensive drugs, charge high markups, and prioritize financial gains over patients. Lawmakers are scrutinizing their practices for potential price inflation and anticompetitive behavior.
US prosecutors recommend Justice Department criminally charge Boeing
US prosecutors recommend criminal charges against Boeing for violating a settlement related to 737 MAX crashes. Boeing disputes claims, faces potential charges, and negotiates with the Justice Department. Families seek hefty fines and prosecution.
Company linked to federal execution spree will no longer produce key drug
A Connecticut chemicals manufacturer, Absolute Standards, halts pentobarbital production due to pressure from lawmakers and activists. This decision may affect future executions, prompting debates on lethal injection ethics.
SCOTUS Rules That US Government Can Continue Talking to Social Media Companies
The Supreme Court allows US government to communicate with social media companies, overturning an injunction. Court finds lack of evidence for direct censorship injuries. Decision may increase government-platform interaction.
Supreme Court strikes anti-corruption law that bars officials from taking gifts
The U.S. Supreme Court overturned part of an anti-corruption law, distinguishing between bribery and gratuities. The ruling impacts state and local officials and reflects a trend of narrowing public corruption laws.