Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel $108 million settlement with Monsanto (PDF)A major manufacturer of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and its affiliates Solutia Inc. and Pharmacia LLC are committed to addressing the hazards caused by PCB contamination in Michigan.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will jointly oversee the use of funds to remediate PCB-contaminated properties and resources and restore natural resources adversely affected by the contamination.
According to the agreement, Monsanto will pay an initial payment of US$32 million in June 2026 and an additional US$32 million by March 2027. The settlement agreement also includes a “contingency amount” related to the outcome of related legal proceedings. The contingency guarantees additional payments of $44 million to $176 million. Under the terms, Michigan would receive at least $108 million, with a possible maximum of $240 million.
PCBs are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in a variety of manufacturing processes and in products ranging from coolants and lubricants to caulks, paper products, sealants and electrical equipment. PCBs are banned from sale and production in the U.S. because of their toxicity and tendency to “bioaccumulate,” meaning the chemicals accumulate in organisms over time, and this accumulation continues up the food chain through the consumption of contaminated plants and animals. In areas affected by PCB contamination, wildlife and fish may contain unsafe levels of the chemicals. To prevent unsafe exposure to PCBs and other chemicals, Michigan releases ‘safe fish to eat’ guide.
Through this settlement, EGLE and the DNR will establish a joint decision-making framework to identify PCB remediation and resource restoration projects to reduce public health risks, reduce bioaccumulation of PCBs in fish and wildlife, and restore PCB impact areas in a manner that improves the overall health of Michigan’s natural resources. The DNR and EGLE will seek input from local governments, tribes and organizations interested in addressing PCB hazards in Michigan and will use a portion of the settlement funds as grants and matching funds to promote efficient and effective use of funds.
Source: Michigan Attorney General’s Office
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