Kroger reaches $1.37B settlement with 30 states for role in national opioid crisis

Virginia will receive up to $29.4 million for opioid abatement from a $1.37 billion settlement agreement with Kroger that addresses the grocery chain’s role in the nation’s opioid crisis.

A coalition of 30 state attorneys general brought completion of the settlement agreement. Virginia will begin to receive payments in early 2025.

“This settlement provides the Commonwealth with vital funds that will go towards preventing, reducing, and treating addiction in our communities,” Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares said. “I commend my Consumer Protection team for their diligent work in securing over $29 million for Virginia.”

Kroger has also agreed to injunctive relief that requires its pharmacies to monitor, report and share data about suspicious activity related to opioid prescriptions.

Kroger operates 123 stores across Virginia under its own name and its subsidiary Harris Teeter.