A federal judge has granted final approval to a class action settlement in litigation arising from the Benton Harbor, Michigan water crisis, marking an important step forward for justice for residents who were exposed to lead-contaminated drinking water. The lawsuit alleges that Benton Harbor residents, including children and families, were exposed to dangerous levels of lead and other contaminants in the City’s water supply for years. The case has highlighted both environmental and racial justice concerns in a historically underserved community.
Under the settlement, the City of Benton Harbor agreed to a $25 million consent judgment and assigned to the class its rights under the City’s insurance policies. Because the City faces significant financial challenges, the settlement allows residents to pursue recovery through insurance coverage litigation.
The settlement is believed to be the first approved settlement of its kind in a personal injury class action since 1999. While the settlement resolves claims against the City, related litigation continues against additional defendants, including state actors and private engineering companies.
Lieff Cabraser and co-counsel Edwards & Jennings, P.C. represented Benton Harbor residents in the litigation.
The LCHB team included:
Mark P. Chalos
Annika K. Martin
Wilson Dunlavey
Amelia Haslekorn
Congratulations to all!
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