Key Takeaways
- DuPont has faced extensive litigation and settlements related to PFAS ("forever chemicals") contamination, with billions paid to resolve claims across multiple states.
- Major lawsuits and regulatory actions have focused on DuPont’s use and disposal of hazardous chemicals, particularly PFOA and PFOS, impacting water supplies and public health.
- The legal landscape is complex and evolving, with ongoing cases, regulatory scrutiny, and new settlements continuing to shape DuPont’s environmental and financial responsibilities.
Introduction
The DuPont lawsuit refers to a series of high-profile legal actions and settlements involving E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (DuPont) and its handling of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals." These chemicals, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), have been linked to environmental contamination and serious health risks. DuPont, along with its spinoff Chemours and other chemical manufacturers, has faced lawsuits from individuals, states, and municipalities alleging contamination of drinking water and environmental damage.
This guide provides an overview of the major lawsuits, settlements, and regulatory actions involving DuPont, with a focus on PFAS litigation, key settlements, and the ongoing legal and regulatory landscape.
Background: PFAS and DuPont
What Are PFAS?
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals used in a wide range of products, including non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, and firefighting foams. They are highly persistent in the environment and the human body, leading to the nickname "forever chemicals." Scientific studies have linked PFAS exposure to health issues such as cancer, immune system effects, and developmental problems.
DuPont’s Role
DuPont was a major manufacturer and user of PFAS, particularly PFOA, which was used in the production of Teflon. Over decades, DuPont’s facilities released PFAS into the environment, contaminating water supplies near manufacturing sites in states like West Virginia, Ohio, and New Jersey.
Major Lawsuits and Settlements
Ohio River Settlement
In December 2023, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Attorney General Dave Yost announced a $110 million settlement with DuPont, Chemours, and Corteva to fund environmental restoration along the Ohio River. This settlement addresses contamination from PFAS and is part of broader efforts to remediate affected areas (official announcement).
Landmark $1.18 Billion Settlement
A significant milestone occurred when U.S. District Judge Richard Gergel approved a $1.18 billion settlement to address PFAS contamination of public water systems. This settlement, involving DuPont and other chemical companies, aims to compensate water providers for the costs of removing PFAS from drinking water (settlement details).
The West Virginia Class Action
One of the earliest and most influential cases was a class action filed in 2001 in West Virginia state court. Residents alleged that DuPont’s Washington Works plant contaminated local drinking water with PFOA. The case led to a settlement and the creation of a medical monitoring program for affected residents (complaint).
The C8 Lawsuit
The C8 lawsuit refers to litigation over DuPont’s dumping of perfluorooctanoic acid (C8) into the Ohio River. Plaintiffs alleged that exposure to C8 caused health problems, including testicular and kidney cancer. In 2017, DuPont and Chemours agreed to pay $671 million to settle over 3,500 lawsuits (settlement approval).
New Jersey "Forever Chemical" Trial
In May 2025, a landmark trial began in New Jersey over PFAS pollution at a South Jersey site. The case targets DuPont and Chemours for contamination caused by their manufacturing processes. This trial is part of a series of lawsuits that began in 1998, focusing on DuPont’s use of PFOA in Teflon production (trial coverage).
Regulatory Settlements with the EPA
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken enforcement actions against DuPont and Chemours for violations related to PFOA under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). These settlements require DuPont to implement corrective actions and pay penalties (EPA settlement).
Key Legal Players
Robert Bilott
Attorney Robert Bilott has played a central role in PFAS litigation against DuPont. He represented plaintiffs in West Virginia and helped uncover internal documents showing DuPont’s knowledge of PFAS risks. Bilott’s work has been widely recognized and was the subject of the film "Dark Waters" (biography).
State Attorneys General
Attorneys general in states like Ohio, North Carolina, and Texas have filed lawsuits against DuPont and other chemical manufacturers. These cases seek compensation for environmental cleanup and public health costs. For example, North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein secured a significant court victory holding DuPont and Chemours accountable for PFAS contamination (NC DOJ press release).
Ongoing Litigation and Legal Developments
Sealed Court Records
In some cases, DuPont and Chemours have sought to keep court records sealed, particularly in lawsuits involving the Fayetteville Works plant in North Carolina. These efforts have drawn criticism from environmental groups and the public, who argue for greater transparency (coverage).
Defeated Class Actions
Despite many settlements, DuPont and 3M have also achieved legal victories. In November 2023, they defeated a massive class action over "forever chemicals," highlighting the complexity and variability of outcomes in PFAS litigation (Reuters report).
Public Water System Settlement Program
To address claims from water providers, DuPont participates in the Public Water System Settlement Program. This program aims to resolve lawsuits related to PFAS contamination of drinking water (program details).
State and Local Actions
Texas Lawsuit
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued DuPont and 3M, alleging they failed to disclose the health and environmental risks of PFAS-containing products. The lawsuit seeks damages and penalties for alleged violations of state law (press release).
Connecticut and Other States
Connecticut and other states have filed lawsuits against DuPont and chemical makers, alleging they concealed the dangers of PFAS and failed to protect public health (CT Mirror coverage).
Cape Fear Public Utility Authority
The Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA) in North Carolina filed a federal lawsuit against Chemours and DuPont, seeking compensation for the costs of removing PFAS from the water supply (CFPUA legal action).
Financial Impact and Settlement Amounts
The financial consequences for DuPont have been substantial. Settlements have ranged from $175,000 to $350,000 per individual claimant, depending on the severity of harm and other factors. The 2017 settlement of $671 million for over 3,500 plaintiffs resulted in an average payout of about $189,000 per person. In total, DuPont and related companies have agreed to pay billions to resolve PFAS-related claims.
Public Interest and Media Coverage
The DuPont lawsuits have attracted significant public attention, in part due to media coverage and the release of the movie "Dark Waters," which dramatizes Robert Bilott’s legal battle against DuPont. The lawsuits have also prompted increased regulatory scrutiny and public awareness of PFAS contamination.
Conclusion
The DuPont lawsuit saga illustrates the far-reaching legal, environmental, and financial consequences of chemical contamination. With ongoing litigation, regulatory actions, and new settlements, the legal landscape continues to evolve. Attorneys, regulators, and affected communities remain engaged in efforts to hold DuPont and other manufacturers accountable for the legacy of PFAS pollution.
Disclaimer:
This guide provides a general overview of the DuPont lawsuit and related legal actions. It is not legal advice. Many cases are ongoing, and information is based on current allegations and public records. Legal outcomes may change as new facts emerge. For detailed legal research or advice, consult a qualified attorney or visit Counsel Stack.
