NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) – Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti announced a significant victory in the legal fight against the mass distribution of dangerous opioids in America.

Skrmetti is part of a bipartisan coalition of 30 U.S. attorneys general who have sued Kroger for its role in the opioid epidemic that has claimed more than 80,000 lives each year, according to the Associated Press.

Kroger and the coalition agreed to a September 2023 settlement of $1.37 billion. Tennessee’s share of the settlement is $42.9 million and is close to being finalized, according to Skrmetti.

“Today’s settlement with Kroger represents another important step in Tennessee’s fight against the opioid epidemic,” Skrmetti said. “By holding those who contributed to this epidemic accountable, Tennessee will secure settlement funds to address the harm inflicted by opioid abuse on families and communities across the state.” »

The full rules are presented below:

The money will go to the state’s Opioid Fund, which is used to promote education and prevention of drug use in communities. Tennessee’s payments are expected to begin in early 2025.

Additionally, Kroger agreed to change its practices at its pharmacies, including monitoring, reporting and sharing data on suspicious opioid prescriptions.

Kroger operates 116 stores in Tennessee.

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