A settlement signed by 3M on Nov. 3 sets documentation requirements for people seeking compensation for PFAS-related injuries and commits the company to $7.35 billion in nominal payments through 2034.
About 99% of current personal injury claims tied to firefighting foam litigation, both in the federal South Carolina case and elsewhere, fall within the agreement, according to its terms. 3M estimates the deal could involve 115,000 to 120,000 people, but participation does not guarantee an award.
Claimants must join the settlement and submit a complete claim package documenting an eligible illness and qualifying PFAS exposure, including through drinking water or another direct route. The listed conditions are kidney cancer, testicular cancer, liver cancer, thyroid cancer, ulcerative colitis or thyroid disease.
The agreement schedules an initial $50 million payment in 2026 and none in 2027. It then sets six installments of $1.045 billion each, with the first due no earlier than Jan. 15, 2028, and the final one due July 15, 2033. Some additional payments depend on participation thresholds. Separately, the agreement provides for a reserve of up to $680 million under its own formula and conditions.
3M expects to record a $5.8 billion pretax charge in the fourth quarter of 2026, reflecting the settlement’s stated present value. The company said the charge will not change its previously issued 2026 guidance. 3M will fund the payments, while participating claimants may receive awards.
The agreement says it should not be treated as evidence that 3M is at fault. Its terms cite avoiding the uncertainty, burdens and risks of continued litigation. 3M said it expects the federal court overseeing the multidistrict case to set evidence standards and deadlines for future claims.
PFAS are used in waterproof and stain-resistant products and in firefighting applications. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says the chemicals can remain in people and the environment for long periods.
A separate 2023 agreement committed up to $10.3 billion in present-value terms over 13 years to help public water suppliers address PFAS contamination. EconoTimes previously reported on the personal injury settlement. The first $50 million payment under the new agreement is due within 30 days of its Nov. 3 signing.
