City moves to join Kroger in historic opioid settlement

In a recent city council meeting, officials discussed a resolution to approve the city's participation in a significant opioid settlement with Kroger, which has agreed to a $1.4 billion settlement affecting approximately 35 states. The city attorney outlined that Virginia's share of this settlement would amount to $28 million, a figure that reflects the state's limited number of Kroger stores compared to other regions.

The settlement stems from allegations that Kroger failed to adequately monitor opioid prescriptions, leading to excessive distributions. While Kroger does not admit to any wrongdoing, the settlement aims to address the ongoing opioid crisis that has impacted communities across the nation.

The council emphasized the importance of participating in this settlement, noting that opting out would require the city to pursue its own legal action to recover funds for opioid abatement. Council members expressed a commitment to seeking justice for victims of the opioid epidemic, highlighting the necessity of collaboration with other localities to maximize the potential recovery from the settlement.

The deadline for localities to join the settlement is August 12, and the council is expected to move forward with the resolution to ensure the city benefits from the funds allocated for opioid recovery efforts.