Historic Flint water settlement officially approved

Late Wednesday afternoon, Michigan’s Flint water civil settlement was formally approved in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. The total amount, when additional defendants are factored in, is a historic $626.25 million.

“For those who have endured the damage done by the Flint water crisis, I know this day brings only partial relief to what remains unimaginable hardship, but I hope this important settlement can be acknowledged as a positive step in the healing process.” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said. “The people of Flint deserve accountability and to be compensated for any injuries they suffered. I am proud of my civil team’s tireless work to reach this historic settlement. Their commitment to this process cannot be understated.”

“The court’s final approval of the settlement is an important step forward in the process of helping Flint heal and making amends to the families and individuals who have faced so much uncertainty. What happened in Flint should never have happened, and no amount of money can completely compensate people for what they have endured,” Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said. “We hope this settlement helps the healing continue as we keep working to make sure that people have access to clean water in Flint and communities all across Michigan. While this chapter may have concluded, we hear and respect those voices who remind us that healing Flint will take a long time. Our long-term commitment to the people of Flint is undiminished, and we will keep working to help build the bright future that the people of Flint deserve.”  

U.S. District Court Judge Judith Levy’s 178-page opinion is being reviewed and additional information will be provided after that review.