The Supreme Court rejects a nationwide opioid settlement with OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma

Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Sackler family members who own OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma say they’re disappointed in the Supreme Court’s rejection of a nationwide settlement that would’ve shielded them from civil lawsuits over the toll of opioids but also would’ve provided billions of dollars to combat the epidemic. They indicate they will return to negotiations. The justices Thursday blocked an agreement hammered out with state and local governments and victims. The Sacklers would’ve contributed up to $6 billion and relinquished ownership of the company but kept billions more. The agreement provided that the Connecticut-based company would emerge from bankruptcy as a different entity, with its profits used for treatment and prevention.