Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced on Apr. 14 a national settlement in principle with grocery chain Albertsons that would require the company to pay more than $773 million for its role in the opioid epidemic. The final settlement is still pending, as it depends on reaching an agreement regarding changes to certain business practices.
The opioid crisis has led to extensive legal action against companies in the pharmaceutical industry, resulting in over $50 billion in settlements nationally. Illinois’ share of these settlements has surpassed $1.4 billion, according to Raoul’s office.
“This settlement in principle with Albertsons will build upon the important progress we’ve already achieved through previous settlements to fight the ongoing opioid epidemic,” Attorney General Kwame Raoul said. “I will continue to hold companies accountable while ensuring the resources Illinois receives through settlements are distributed equitably throughout the state to help fund the services needed to mitigate the impact of opioid addiction.”
The proposed agreement applies only to states where Albertsons operates under its own name or subsidiaries such as Jewel-Osco, Safeway, Randalls, Shaw’s, Acme Markets and United Supermarkets. While both parties have agreed on a total payment amount for eligible state and local governments, further negotiations remain regarding injunctive relief terms.
Raoul’s efforts reflect broader initiatives by his office which include advocating for vulnerable groups such as workers, immigrants and seniors according to the official website. The Attorney General also handles thousands of consumer complaints each year according to their official website, and aims to protect consumers while promoting safer communities and addressing environmental issues according to their official website.
In addition, Raoul’s office extends advocacy across Illinois according to their official website, partners with law enforcement agencies for crime victim support and open government according to their official website, and offers services like complaint filing related to consumer fraud or civil rights issues according to their official website.
Joining Attorney General Raoul in leading these negotiations are attorneys general from California, Colorado and Oregon.
