Michigan to pay $600 million to settle Flint water crisis lawsuits

A judge formally approved a settlement agreement in which the state of Michigan will pay $600 million to settle lawsuits stemming from the Flint water crisis.

The city of Flint will further provide $20 million, while the McLaren Regional Medical Center and Rowe Professional Services will contribute $5 million and $1.5 million, respectively, The Hill reported. The combined sums represent the largest legal settlement in state history.

The settlement received preliminary approval more than two years ago, but did not receive final approval until now. 

In 2014, state officials permitted Flint to begin using the Flint River as its primary water source, a move that lead to residents' exposure to water contaminated with lead. Up to 12,000 children were affected.

Most of the settlement funds have been earmarked for those who were minors at the time, according to the outlet. 

Democratic Attorney General Dana Nessel celebrated the settlement, saying "[t]his ruling provides families with much needed compensation for the injuries they have suffered. I am proud of my team’s tireless work on behalf of the people of Flint."

Nevertheless, she conceded that "[t]his historic settlement cannot undo the unimaginable hardship and heartbreaking health effects these families and children in Flint have endured."

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on Twitter.