Palmetto State News

South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, along with a bipartisan group of 30 state attorneys general, has announced the finalization of a $1.37 billion settlement with Kroger. This settlement addresses the grocery chain's involvement in the opioid crisis. South Carolina is set to receive approximately $18 million from this agreement for opioid abatement efforts, with payments expected to start early next year.

Attorney General Wilson stated, "No amount of money can make up for the lives we’ve lost to the opioid crisis, but the money from this settlement, along with the other settlements we’ve announced, will go to treat people who are addicted to opioids." He emphasized ongoing efforts to hold those accountable for their roles in the crisis.

The settlement also includes injunctive relief measures requiring Kroger pharmacies to monitor and report suspicious activities related to opioid prescriptions. Kroger operates 44 stores across South Carolina under its name and subsidiaries like Harris Teeter.