3M pays $4 million to Columbus in forever chemicals lawsuit settlement

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The City of Columbus received a lofty settlement payment from a large American company it sued over chemical contamination.

3M Corporation is set to pay the city $4 million as an initial settlement payment after a 2023 lawsuit alleged the company produced forever chemicals "knowing the dangers and failed to warn consumers and the public about the risks associated," per a statement from city attorney Zach Klein's office.

DuPont was also named in the lawsuit as Columbus and other cities said that these forever chemicals found in everyday products can cause health issues, and contaminate soil, air, and water.

The lawsuit said that corporations should bear the brunt of costs to potential technological installations to infrastructure maintain EPA standard chemical levels.

Columbus Water and Power said the city's water supply meets or exceeds drinking standards but that future technology may be required and money from 3M's settlement may be used for those upgrades.