Supreme Court Rejects Opioid Settlement, Families Vow to Continue the Fight

On Thursday, the Supreme Court made a 5-4 decision to block a significant bankruptcy reorganization of Purdue Pharma, the manufacturer of the prescription painkiller OxyContin. The ruling torpedoed a massive settlement intended for victims of the drug crisis and dealt a serious blow to those who lost family members to opioids.

Some individuals who lost family members to opioids expressed shock and sadness in response to the ruling. Jill Cichowicz, who founded the nonprofit group Two in the Stigma after her twin brother died of fentanyl poisoning, likened the decision to the day her brother passed away. Despite the setback, Cichowicz expressed a resolve to keep fighting.

Legal representatives and victims of the opioid epidemic, such as attorney Edward Neiger and Kay Scarpone, whose son died of an overdose, described the Supreme Court's decision as devastating. The ruling disrupted a deal that was perceived as the most significant opportunity for victims and states to receive financial aid and support.

Justice Neil Gorsuch's Argument

Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch, writing for the majority, highlighted that the Sackler family, which had controlled Purdue Pharma, aimed to use the company's bankruptcy proceedings to seek a release from any future liability by offering a substantial settlement. The ruling means that settlement talks with the Sacklers would have to restart, while Purdue Pharma's bankruptcy proceedings continue.

The disruption caused by the ruling was described as a setback that will delay the much-needed financial aid, including funds for treatment, thereby potentially costing lives. Despite this, victims and advocates are determined to continue their fight for justice and support for those affected by the opioid crisis.

Hope for a New Deal

In response to the Supreme Court's decision, the Sackler family, Purdue Pharma, and lawyers for the plaintiffs expressed hope that a new deal could be swiftly reached. The setback caused by the ruling will require the reopening of discussions with the Sacklers, while simultaneously navigating the ongoing bankruptcy proceedings of Purdue Pharma.

Opioid-Related Deaths

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 81,083 people in the United States died last year due to opioids. These drugs accounted for the vast majority of the estimated 107,543 overall drug overdose deaths, underscoring the severity of the opioid crisis.

In spite of the setback caused by the Supreme Court's decision, individuals affected by the opioid crisis are steadfast in their determination to continue the fight for justice and support. Kay Scarpone emphasized that the next step is to persevere and carry on the fight for the welfare of opioid crisis victims.