In a landmark development in New Jersey environmental litigation, chemical manufacturer 3M has agreed to a proposed $285 million judicial consent order with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to resolve claims related to PFAS – also known as “forever chemicals.” If approved by the court, this will become the largest PFAS settlement in New Jersey history, underscoring the growing momentum to hold corporations accountable for environmental contamination.

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals that do not break down in the environment or in the human body. PFAS have been allegedly linked to several cancers, including kidney and testicular cancer, PFAS are at the center of an increasing wave of toxic tort litigation in New Jersey and nationwide.

Under the terms of the proposed agreement, 3M will pay $210 million to settle the litigation involving the Chamber Works facility and an additional $75 million to cover future PFAS-related claims across New Jersey between 2030 and 2050. The lawsuit alleged that 3M supplied PFAS to the site for years, contributing to widespread contamination in the state. The settlement includes no admission of liability from 3M, but Attorney General Matthew Platkin stated that “this ends now” for companies seeking to avoid responsibility for decades of pollution in New Jersey.

This case follows another major PFAS-related settlement in New Jersey, in which Solvay Specialty Polymers paid approximately $394 million to resolve similar claims. These settlements reflect the seriousness of PFAS contamination in New Jersey – where numerous facilities have manufactured, distributed, or disposed of PFAS compounds for decades.

Lieberman, Blecher & Sinkevich is closely following these developments. As a New Jersey-based law firm focused on environmental law and toxic torts, Lieberman, Blecher & Sinkevich understands the deep and ongoing impact PFAS has had on New Jersey residents, communities, and ecosystems.

PFAS contamination isn’t just an environmental issue – it’s a public health crisis. With New Jersey at the center of national PFAS litigation, individuals and communities need informed, experienced legal guidance now more than ever.

If you or someone you know has been exposed to PFAS in New Jersey, or if you have questions about your legal rights, please contact Lieberman, Blecher & Sinkevich at 732-355-1311.