Florida Regulators Settle Talcum Powder Case With Johnson & Johnson for $700 Million (Deceptive Marketing)
On June 12th, 2024, NBC News reported that Florida regulators (along with dozens of other states) have reached a $700 million settlement with Johnson & Johnson. The state found that the multi-national company engaged in unlawful deception by failing to warn consumers about the health and safety risks associated with its talcum powder products. Within this article, our West Palm Beach FDUTPA attorney discusses the case and the settlement in more detail.
Background: Talcum Powder Linked to Serious Health Complications
Talcum powder has been widely used in various consumer products for decades. The primary benefit is its moisture-absorbing and friction-reducing properties. Is talcum powder dangerous? Unfortunately, it has been linked to very serious health complications. Here are key points:
- Cancer Risks: The use of talcum powder has been implicated in increased risks of ovarian cancer, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. These risks are particularly notable in people who have long-term exposure to talcum powder.
- Respiratory Issues: Inhaling talcum powder can cause respiratory problems ranging from chronic lung irritation and talcosis to more severe conditions like lung cancer and respiratory failure. It is of particular concern for infants and other young children.
- Ongoing Lawsuits: Many product liability claims have been filed related to talcum powder. Notably, Johnson & Johnson, is one of the primary defendants in talcum powder cases.
Settlement Reached Between Johnson & Johnson and Florida Attorney General
In June 2024, Johnson & Johnson reached a settlement with 42 U.S. states and the District of Columbia regarding talcum powder. Notably, Florida is one of the states. As part of the settlement, the company agreed to pay $700 million. The settlement addresses claims that the company deceptively marketed its talcum powder products. It is important to note that this agreement does not affect the individual product liability lawsuits that are part of the ongoing multidistrict litigation (MDL) involving Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder. Many claims are still outstanding.
Johnson & Johnson Accused of Deception
Johnson & Johnson has been accused of deceptive practices regarding its talcum powder products, specifically targeting vulnerable consumers without adequate warnings about potential cancer risks. These allegations focus on the company’s failure to inform users about the asbestos contamination in its talcum powder, despite internal knowledge of the risks. Investigations have revealed internal documents showing the company’s awareness of the asbestos contamination but public assurances that their products were safe. Federal and state laws—including the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA)—are designed to protect the rights and interests of consumers. A consumer may have a claim for compensation for an FDUTPA violation.
Consult With a Top-Tier West Palm Beach FDUTPA Lawyer Today
At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our West Palm Beach deceptive and unfair trade practices lawyers are standing by, ready to fight for your legal rights. If you have any questions about a deceptive practices claim, we are here to help. Consult with us today for your confidential initial appointment. We serve communities in Palm Beach County and throughout all of Southeast Florida.
Source:
nbcnews.com/business/business-news/johnson-johnson-reaches-700-million-talc-settlement-us-states-rcna156745
