Montgomery, AL – Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, along with a bipartisan coalition of 30 state attorneys general, has announced the completion of a $1.37 billion settlement with Kroger, aiming to address the grocery chain’s role in the national opioid crisis. Under the settlement, Alabama is set to receive up to approximately $19.8 million to aid opioid abatement efforts across the state, with the initial payments expected to begin early next year.
“Alabama has taken a bold path to address the opioid crisis that is devastating communities around the state, and today’s announcement reaffirms our ongoing commitment to address this epidemic,” Attorney General Marshall stated. “As these funds begin to flow into the state, my office remains steadfast in our commitment to ensuring accountability and directing these resources toward urgently needed support for communities affected by addiction.”
Beyond the financial settlement, Kroger has agreed to specific injunctive measures requiring its pharmacies to monitor, report, and share data on suspicious opioid prescription activity. These requirements are intended to help curb the misuse of opioids and strengthen oversight within Kroger’s pharmacy operations. Kroger operates 11 stores across Alabama under its own name and through its subsidiaries, which include brands like Harris Teeter, Dillons, Fred Meyer, and Ralphs, among others.