3M PFAS Accord for Up to $12.5 Billion Opposed by 19 States (1)

3M Co.’s agreement to pay as much as $12.5 billion to settle lawsuits over so-called forever chemicals faces opposition from 19 US states that say the deal is worth far less than it appears.

Attorneys general for the 19 states, the District of Columbia and two US territories argued the proposed accord contains provisions that could force local water providers affected by chemical contamination to reimburse 3M for many costs, according to a court filing Wednesday.

A key provision in the proposed pact could “be interpreted to allow 3M to mostly exit the picture, leaving everyone else, including Sovereigns, ...