New York Attorney General Letitia James achieved a significant $44 million victory for New Yorkers as she secured a major legal settlement against Johnson and Johnson.
James, known nationally for her high-profile civil case against former President Donald Trump, collaborated with 42 other state attorneys general in a lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson.
The case accused the company of “deceptively marketing and selling” baby powder products containing talcum powder.
Talcum powder, used in personal care products to absorb moisture and prevent caking, has raised health concerns due to potential asbestos contamination and an associated cancer risk.
The lawsuit claimed Johnson & Johnson targeted beauty salons and churches in communities of color to sell their talcum powder products.
On Tuesday, the coalition announced a $700 million settlement with the company, which included a commitment to cease manufacturing and selling talcum powder products in the U.S.
Of this amount, $44 million is allocated to New York.
“Targeting communities with cosmetic products that contain dangerous substances is not just illegal, it is very cruel,” James said.
She stated that while “no amount of money can undo the pain caused by J&J’s talc-laced products,” the settlement ensures accountability and removes these products from New York shelves.
“Those that prey on our communities, hurt their health, and violate our laws will be met with the full force of my office,” she added.
Johnson & Johnson’s Worldwide Vice President of Litigation, Erik Haas, told Newsweek that the company is committed to resolving the talc litigation.
“Consistent with the plan we outlined last year, the Company continues to pursue several paths to achieve a comprehensive and final resolution of the talc litigation,” he said.
He noted the finalization of the agreement with the attorneys general and the ongoing efforts to resolve remaining claims through litigation or settlement.
Johnson & Johnson did not admit any wrongdoing as part of the settlement, according to Reuters.
The case was spearheaded by attorneys general from Florida, North Carolina, and Texas. The company has previously faced lawsuits over its talcum powder products.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration acknowledges studies suggesting a “possible association between the use of powders containing talc in the genital area and the incidence of ovarian cancer,” though it states that “more research is needed to confirm if there is a link or not.”
