Erie County Opioid Settlement

Erie County, New York, was among the first counties to initiate legal action against pharmaceutical companies and distributors for their significant contribution to the local opioid epidemic.

Between 2013 and 2015, Erie County witnessed a staggering 153% increase¹ in opioid overdose deaths. With the crisis showing no signs of abating, County Executive Mark Poloncarz declared a public health emergency related to the opioid epidemic in 2016. By the close of that year, the Erie County Department of Health reported an alarming 301 opioid overdose deaths, marking a 198% rise² since 2013.

Following the 2016 declaration of a public health emergency, in 2017, Erie County launched a civil lawsuit against pharmaceutical manufacturers and individuals who contributed to numerous fatalities and widespread harm. Several other counties in New York, along with the state itself and a national lawsuit involving multiple attorneys general, filed similar actions. Erie County's complaint highlights the defendants' deceptive practices, false advertising, fraud, and unjust enrichment, which have all contributed to escalating opioid dependency, increased healthcare costs, and significant social issues.

Click here to read the complaint filed in the NYS Supreme Court.

As a result of these legal efforts, Erie County is scheduled* to receive $76,911,715 (previously $63m) through 2040, with initial payments beginning in 2022. Erie County has committed to directing all available funds toward opioid abatement initiatives as the crisis remains an ongoing concern.