Payments to veterans begin in $6 billion 3M earplug settlement

Manufacturing company 3M is initiating payments as part of its $6 billion settlement resolving nearly 300,000 lawsuits. The lawsuits allege that 3M supplied faulty combat earplugs to the military, resulting in significant injuries such as hearing loss. The company has already started sending out approximately $250 million in payments to service members and veterans, with all payouts expected to be completed by the end of January. While more than 30,000 individuals have agreed to the lawsuit, it remains unclear how much each claimant will receive. 3M has stated that the settlement is not an admission of liability, and the payout will be fulfilled over several years in cash and stock. The earplugs in question were used by the US military between 2003 and 2015 and were alleged to have caused hearing loss and tinnitus. Aearo Technologies, the manufacturer of the earplugs, was acquired by 3M in 2008. 3M’s statement emphasizes that the products are safe when used correctly and that the company is prepared to defend itself if the agreed settlement terms are not met.